Avoid uncooked food during rains, say doctors

Chennai

The aftermath of heavy rains continues to disrupt normal life in the city. The water logging, flooding and the moisture in the air have brought a number of health concerns. Monsoon is the time when diseases, particularly of the digestive system, are rampant. As a result, it is important to keep a tab on what one is eating. Cooked food is the best bet. Raw food, be it in the form of chutneys or salads, need to be consumed with care.
“Every food item needs to be cooked properly. That does not mean you consume deep-fried food. Owing to the moisture in the air, raw food items sometimes carry bacteria and virus that might cause severe stomach infections,” says Dr. Kannaiyan R., General Physician at Apollo Hospital. He adds, “Even chutneys and dips are semi-cooked or at times raw, one needs to consume them with caution.” Maida, raw meat as well as raw salads are heavy to digest, and in the monsoons, the latter two are also unhygienic.
However, there is a way to avoid chances of infections. One needs to wash and clean the fruits, vegetables and meat properly before consuming them. “I would say one needs to be cautious about what one consumes. “The fruits and vegetables should be washed properly in salt water or vinegar, so as to kill any form of bacteria or virus. They should ideally be cooked properly for consumption. And if at all, you want to eat raw fruits or vegetables, have them fresh. Do not keep them in the open for long and then eat. Avoid raw seafood, shellfish or any kind of raw meat preparations,” says Dr. Dharini Krishnan, a consultant dietician.
While many put forth that raw food needs to be completely avoided, there are others who feel it is just about paying a little more attention to what one eats.
“I wouldn’t say raw food should not be consumed. It is all a matter of how you clean it and store it. There are chances of raw food getting spoilt quickly owing to the moisture in the air. But one can sense that from the smell and texture. Just ensure you wash everything before you consume them,” says Dr. Wasim Mohideen, a wellness expert and owner of the blog, Chennaifoody.com.
Rain Check
Light, home-cooked foods prevent several water and food borne diseases and boost the energy level in the body.
Opt for hot foods like soup and cooked meals instead of cold and raw foods.
Choose grilled sandwiches instead of cold ones.
Vegetables like cabbage cauliflower, spinach and beans should be washed in salt water before cooking in order to kill the germs.
Non-vegetarian food like raw eggs and seafood must be avoided in the rainy season. Monsoon is the breeding season for some types of fish and prawns which can cause severe stomach infections. One must be very cautious while buying them.