The rainy season is refreshing—but also risky when it comes to stomach health. During monsoon, problems like gas, indigestion, food poisoning, and diarrhea become common. According to doctors, the root cause lies in humidity, bacterial growth, and poor food hygiene.
Here’s everything you need to know about why stomach issues are so frequent in the rain—and what you should eat or avoid to stay healthy.
Why Does the Stomach Get Upset During Rain?
1. High Humidity:
Increased moisture in the air promotes the rapid growth of bacteria and fungi in food, especially when it's left uncovered.
2. Contaminated Water:
Rainwater can mix with sewage and enter pipelines or tanks, making drinking water unsafe and increasing the risk of waterborne diseases.
3. Weakened Immunity:
Sudden weather changes affect the body's defense system, making digestion sluggish and increasing sensitivity to infections.
4. Street Food Culture:
Open food, especially roadside snacks, easily gets contaminated due to flies, dust, and dirty water used in preparation.
Doctor’s Advice: What to Eat for a Healthy Stomach in Monsoon?
Dr. Paramjit Kaur (Dietician, AIIMS) recommends consuming light, hydrating, and home-cooked meals during the rainy season:
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✅ Boiled or filtered water only
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✅ Moong dal, khichdi, or porridge – light and easy to digest
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✅ Curd or buttermilk (only if acidity is not present)
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✅ Lemon water or coconut water – helps maintain electrolyte balance
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✅ Soups and steamed vegetables – boosts immunity and is gentle on the gut
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✅ Add immunity-boosting spices like turmeric, cumin (jeera), ajwain (carom seeds), and ginger
What NOT to Eat During Rainy Season
To avoid stomach issues, doctors strictly advise against:
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❌ Street food – like pani puri, bhel, chaat (prone to contamination)
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❌ Cabbage, cauliflower – may carry worms or be improperly washed
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❌ Oily, spicy and fried food – harder to digest, can trigger acidity
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❌ Leftover or refrigerated food – increases risk of food poisoning
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❌ Ice and open water – often made from unclean sources
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❌ Sugary foods and sweets – can promote fungal infections in humid conditions
Basic Preventive Measures
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Wash hands before meals and after using the toilet
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Avoid eating raw food that isn’t peeled or boiled
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Wash all vegetables and fruits thoroughly
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Boil drinking water or use certified filtration methods
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Avoid eating outside, especially uncovered food or drinks
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In case of symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, start ORS, hydration, and rest immediately. See a doctor if symptoms last over 48 hours.
