Foods to include in the Monsoon diet according to Ayurveda

The monsoon season brings with it a wave of challenges that happen due to the change of weather. Interestingly, Ayurveda has some brilliant suggestions that may help in balancing the doshas by including foods with balanced and warm potency. Here’s all you need to know about Ayurveda-backed foods to try during monsoons.

Why are dietary changes a must in this season?
The rainy season can cause fluctuations in doshas, particularly an increase in kapha dosha, which can lead to congestion, colds, and digestive issues.The easiest way to stay healthy during the monsoon season is by incorporating specific foods into your diet. Here are some of the best foods to include in your monsoon diet according to Ayurveda.
Warm foods
During the monsoon, the body’s digestive power (Agni) tends to weaken due to the dampness and humidity in the air. To support digestion, Ayurveda recommends consuming warm, cooked foods rather than raw or cold meals.

Soups and stews
Prepare nourishing vegetable soups and lentil stews that are easy to digest. Add warming spices like ginger, turmeric, and cumin to enhance flavor and support digestion.
Khichdi
This one-pot dish made from rice and lentils is soothing and easy on the stomach, making it an excellent choice during monsoon.
Spices for digestion
Incorporating spices into your meals not only adds flavor but also aids digestion and boosts immunity.
Ginger: Known for its warming properties, ginger helps combat the chill of the rainy season and aids digestion. You can consume it in tea, added to dishes, or as ginger-infused honey.

Turmeric: This powerful anti-inflammatory spice can be added to various dishes and is known for its immune-boosting properties.
Cumin and Coriander: These spices help stimulate digestion and can be added to soups, curries, or used in spice blends.
Fruits and vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables are essential for providing vitamins and minerals, but Ayurveda advises choosing the right ones during monsoon.

Cooked Vegetables
Opt for seasonal vegetables like pumpkin, carrots, and bottle gourd, which can be easily cooked and digested. Avoid raw salads, as they may increase kapha and lead to bloating.
Fruits: Choose warm, sweet, and easily digestible fruits like apples, pears, and cooked fruits (e.g., stewed apples with cinnamon). Citrus fruits should be consumed in moderation, as they can aggravate acidity.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are ground and provide sustained energy, making them an excellent choice during the monsoon.
Oats and Quinoa
These grains are nutritious and can be prepared in various ways. Oats can be made into warm porridge, while quinoa can be used in salads or cooked dishes.
Brown Rice
Rich in fiber, brown rice is easy to digest and can be paired with lentils or vegetables for a wholesome meal.
Legumes and Pulses
Legumes are a great source of protein and help keep you satiated.
Moong Dal
This easily digestible lentil is perfect for the monsoon season. It can be cooked into soups or khichdi and is rich in nutrients.
Chickpeas and kidney beans
These can be included in cooked dishes or soups, providing protein and fiber.
Healthy Fats
Adding healthy fats to the diet can help maintain warmth and balance during the cooler, damper months.
Ghee
A staple in Ayurvedic cooking, ghee is known for its digestive properties and can be used in cooking or drizzled over dishes.
Nuts and Seeds
Almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds provide essential fatty acids and can be consumed in moderation as snacks or added to meals.
Herbal Teas
Staying hydrated is crucial, but opt for herbal teas instead of cold beverages.
Ginger Tea: This warming tea aids digestion and helps prevent colds.
Tulsi Tea
Holy basil is revered in Ayurveda for its immunity-boosting properties and can be consumed daily.
Avoid certain foods.
Certain foods should be minimized during the monsoon season to prevent imbalances.
Cold and Raw Foods: Raw vegetables, salads, and ice-cold beverages can dampen digestion and increase kapha.
Heavy and Oily Foods: Avoid fried and overly rich foods, which can lead to sluggishness and digestive issues.
Fermented foods: foods like yogurt and pickles can aggravate kapha; moderation is key.