New Delhi: Monsoons are beautiful, but also trigger diseases, infections and illnesses. The digestive system becomes increasingly sensitive during monsoons, and becomes prone to acidity, bloating, indigestion, stomach ulcers, etc. Doctors say that the digestive system becomes sluggish during Monsoons and that avoiding junk, oily and spicy food along with regular exercise and balanced diet consumption can help keep the digestive system active.


Why does the intestine swell in monsoon?


"We always see an increase in the number of patients with stomach, bowel and liver infections during the rainy season", says Dr. Keyur Seth, from Apollo Spectra Hospital, Mumbai. Infections caused due to food and water suddenly increase during monsoon." According to him, more than a thousand patients come to the hospital every month to get treatment for gastric problems.


He says eating heavy food can slow down the digestive process, triggering problems such as bloating, gas, acidity and indigestion. Consuming street food and drinks can trigger stomach infections as the water used in it may contain bacteria. Drinking water from unhygienic sources can make you diarrheic.    


How to avoid bowel problems? 


"Avoid drinking carbonated drinks as it can weaken the digestive system and cause mineral deficiency", explains Dr. Seth. Some important measures need to be taken to ensure smooth functioning of the digestive system during monsoon. 



  • Avoid eating seafood as fish harvested from contaminated water can cause cholera or diarrhea. 

  • Do not eat chopped fruits sold on the streets as chopped fruits may be contaminated with bacteria. 

  • According to Dr. Seth, consumption of lemon and ginger helps increase digestion and immunity.

  • Consumption of probiotics such as yogurt or buttermilk is recommended as the good bacteria in these improve the immunity system.

  • One should drink plenty of water to flush out toxins from the body and improve digestion. 

  • Vegetables should be boiled before consumption as bacteria in raw vegetables can make your intestine worse.

  • Do not lie down immediately after eating as it can cause acidity and bloating.