7 Foods To Avoid This Pollution Season In Delhi For Better Lung Health

Foods To Avoid During Delhi Pollution: Delhi’s pollution season has officially started with the arrival of October and November, almost rolling in. Delhi’s pollution season brings hazardous air quality to the city, leading to an increase in respiratory and immunity-related issues among the residents. With smog and harmful particulate matter thickening the air every winter, lung health becomes a top priority. People are advised to stay indoors, wear masks and invest in air purifiers. However, the most important protectors against Delhi’s pollution are the dietary choices. The pollution season diet helps the body to detoxify the body and alleviate inflammation caused by toxins.

It is important to know that Delhi’s pollution not only affects what people breathe but also contaminates the food. Thus, mindful eating and restricting certain foods play a major role in lung health. There are a number of common foods that can worsen the respiratory distress caused by Delhi’s pollution. Avoid eating these foods when the air quality is low so that they work as natural defences toward cleansing and healing. Here are the seven foods to avoid during Delhi pollution.

Foods To Avoid For Better Lung Health During Delhi’s Pollution

Street Food

Street food vendors sell in open spaces with minimal protection during Delhi’s pollution season. When vendors cook and serve food in high-traffic areas or near industrial zones, pollutants like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides settle in the food, thus affecting the quality. Consuming polluted street food can cause respiratory issues and digestive problems.

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Raw Fruit And Vegetables

Most fruits and vegetables are kept uncovered outdoors and they can carry various pollutants and dust particles. Consuming them can unnecessarily strain the lungs and liver, which may already be dealing with polluted air. Cooking or peeling fruits and vegetables will help eliminate most contaminants and make them safer for consumption during pollution.

Water From Untrusted Sources

During Delhi’s high AQI, even the water that people drink can affect their lung and liver health. Air pollutants often seep into the water supply, especially in areas with poor filtration. Drinking or cooking with water from untrusted sources might contain bacteria and chemicals which can weaken immunity and lead to stomach infections.

Foods To Avoid For Better Lung Health During Delhi Pollution (Image Credits: Canva)

Open-Air Buffets

Although open-air buffets might seem tempting during the festive season in October and November, they are dangerous to health. Foods left uncovered in the open easily collect dust and airborne toxins that settle from the smog, which decrease the taste and trigger allergies when consumed. Thus, it is always a better and smarter decision to choose from indoor dining options, where the food is freshly cooked and served.

Dairy Products

Dairy products such as milk, cheese and yoghurt can be risky to consume if not stored properly. Airborne pollutants can settle on unsealed items and if they are not packed or sealed correctly, this can affect their quality and safety. It is better to choose pasteurised and well-handled items and ensure they are properly refrigerated.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms are mostly grown in a moist environment, which can easily absorb pollutants from the air. With the air quality deteriorating in Delhi, it is better to avoid eating them. However, you can also purchase mushrooms from other regions and cook them thoroughly.

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Fish And Seafood

Fish and other seafood can be risky to consume, as the pollutants in the air can settle on the surfaces of water bodies or on the skin of animals caught in the sea or oceans. Thus, it is safer to eat smaller fish such as sardines and salmon, rather than consuming predatory fish.

Thus, during Delhi’s pollution season, it is extremely important to make mindful dietary choices to avoid affecting lung health. Avoid eating these foods and ensure you consume freshly prepared and well-cooked foods.