Monsoon arrives with green plants, refreshing rains, and a lot of food mysteries. There are several fruits and vegetables which are not considered fit to be consumed in the rainy season. Among the most frequently asked is about fruits: Is it okay to have peaches during monsoon? Since monsoon is also a time when belly bugs and food poisoning increase, one becomes extra careful regarding foods.
In an exclusive interaction with the editorial team of Onlymyhealth, Dr Bhumesh Tyagi, Consultant- General Medicine and Physician, Shardacare, Health City, Noida, explained if peaches are safe to eat during monsoon, what precautions you need to take, and how this fruit can still be helpful for your health if consumed in the proper manner. Here is what he shared with us.
Are Peaches Safe To Eat During Monsoon?
The short answer is yes, but with precautions. Peaches are also very nutritious, have lots of vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fibre. They can support your immune system, which is vital in monsoon when one tends to get infections such as cold, flu, and tummy bug easily.
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But monsoon also raises the risk of spoiled fruits because of poor handling, storage, or exposure to rain water and mud. Peaches, being soft-skinned and juicy, can develop fungal growth if not handled well. Wet and unclean fruits can also attract bacteria.
Advantages Of Having Peaches During Monsoon
If you handle it in the right way, peaches can be a nutritious part of your monsoon diet:
- Boosts Immunity: The peaches' vitamin C assists in warding off infections during the season.
- Good For Digestion: Peaches contain fiber that can aid in digestion and help avoid constipation, a major problem during the rainy season because of lack of activity.
- Hydration: Being high in water content, peaches can aid in keeping you hydrated on monsoon hot days.
- Promotes Skin Health: Peaches' antioxidants may keep your skin from becoming dull and breaking out in this season.
Precautions To Take While Enjoying Peaches In Monsoon
Here's how you can enjoy peaches safely during the monsoon season:
- Wash Properly: Always wash peaches under clean, running water to dispose of dirt, pesticide residues, and potential bacterial contamination.
- Soak In/Anti-Viral Salt Water Or Vinegar: This will kill surface germs or tiny insects. Soak the fruit for 5–10 minutes and then rinse.
- Steer clear of Overripe Or Damaged Peaches: These tend to contain damaging fungi or bacteria.
- Eat Fresh And Moderately/Avoid Prolonged Storage And Overeating: Do not store peaches for long after ripening, and don't overeat, as too much fibre or fructose can lead to bloating.
Who Should Be Cautious?
People with sensitive stomachs, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or a history of food allergies should be extra cautious with any raw fruits during the monsoon—including peaches. It’s always best to consult a healthcare provider if you’re unsure.
Bottomline
Peaches are not taboo during monsoon, but how you consume them is more important than the fact that you consume them. By opting for fresh, firm fruits, washing them well, and consuming them in moderation, you can relish their juicy goodness without endangering your health.