It is imperative that you take care of yourself, particularly in terms of safeguarding your heart health, which becomes especially critical during the monsoon season. Increased humidity, temperature fluctuations, and a higher risk of infections are all associated with the rainy season and can further strain the heart. To maintain heart health during this period, it's crucial to pay attention to your nutrition, physical activity, and overall lifestyle.

Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins provides the nutrients needed to support heart health while avoiding heavy and fatty meals that might strain the heart. Regular exercise is also beneficial, but it's important to modify your routine to stay indoors during heavy rains, as exposure to infections is more likely during this time.

Do you know that your stress levels might increase in response to changes in routine and weather, especially in the monsoon season? (Image Credit: Canva)

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Swati Darade, B.A.M.S. DYA at Ayush Dispensary in Satara, Maharashtra, discussed common monsoon myths and facts, especially regarding heart health.

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Some Common Monsoon Myths:

  1. Rainwater is protective and cannot cause harm.
  2. Fasting during the monsoon is beneficial.
  3. Avoiding meat and seafood during the monsoon is necessary.
  4. Hydration is not important when it's raining outside.

Let's explore the facts behind these monsoon dos and don'ts.

Stress management is essential, as chronic stress is known to have a detrimental effect on heart health. (Image Credit: Canva)

The monsoon season in India, dominated by the humid southwest summer monsoon, gradually sweeps across the country, beginning in late May or early June. During this time, it’s important to focus on healthy foods. According to Dr. Swati, the rainy season can affect heart health, particularly in the elderly, as it often brings respiratory tract infections and gastric problems that can stress the heart.

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Precautions To Take During The Monsoon:

  1. Practicing good hygiene, drinking boiled water, and eating freshly cooked food.
  2. Consuming heart-healthy or overall immunity-boosting foods throughout the year, regardless of the season.

At last Dr. Swati recommends foods such as Shastik rice, Shali rice, moong, rock salt, amla, barley flour (yav), milk, honey, and meat of wild animals (such as goats or grouse) as suitable for daily consumption to maintain heart health.