Basil Seeds: The monsoon superfood to keep you cool and hydrated

The monsoon season’s arrival increases humidity levels, creating a heavy and damp environment. As the rain falls, the ground and surrounding surfaces become wet, and the water evaporates, adding moisture to the air. This increased moisture content leads to a rise in humidity levels, which can have several effects on the body, mainly dehydration.

To combat dehydration and stay healthy during this season, incorporating basil seeds (Sabja, Tukmaria) into your diet can be highly beneficial. They serve as an ideal substitute for chia seeds due to their wider availability and affordability. Basil seeds act as natural cooling agents for the body, effectively regulating body temperature and providing a refreshing sensation.

Research suggests that consuming basil seeds in moderate quantities contributes to a nourishing and hydrating diet.

According to Kanika Khanna, a dietician with 15 years of experience at Delhi’s Apollo Hospital, these seeds can lower body heat and soothe the stomach owing to their high fibre content. Remarkably, basil seeds can absorb water nearly four times their dry weight.

“Basil seeds aid in reducing excessive sweating and dehydration,” says Khanna. “Additionally, the seeds contain vitamins A, K, B6, and E, as well as zinc, calcium, magnesium, and iron, which contribute to overall nutrition and electrolyte balance.”

Nikita Marwaha, another dietician based in Bhopal, highlighted the health benefits of incorporating basil seeds into the monsoon diet.

“Contamination of food and water, which is common during this season, can lead to gastrointestinal issues. Basil seeds water, with its detoxifying properties, serves as a beneficial digestive aid to combat such problems,” Nikita told Patriot.

Being rich in fibre, basil seeds aid digestion and help maintain a healthy digestive system. They can be incorporated into various beverages or consumed plain with water.

Their unique ability to absorb water and develop a jelly-like texture makes them a great addition to drinks like lemonade, smoothies, or traditional Indian beverages like falooda.

Simply soak the seeds in water for 30 minutes to two hours (depending on the recipe), and they will swell up and become translucent, enhancing both the health benefits and visual appeal of the drink.

Given the monsoon season’s increase in humidity, it is crucial to take steps to stay hydrated. Including basil seeds in your diet can be a simple yet effective way to combat dehydration and keep yourself healthy during this season.

More Ways to Avoid Dehydration During This Season!

Consume Electrolytes: Excessive sweating and humidity during monsoon can lead to electrolyte imbalance. Include foods and drinks like coconut water and lemon water to restore the body’s electrolyte levels.

Intake Hydrating Foods: Incorporate foods with high water content into your diet, such as watermelon, oranges, and cucumbers. Soups and watery vegetables like lettuce and celery can also help keep you hydrated.

Limit Diuretic Beverages: Reduce your intake of diuretic beverages like caffeinated drinks (coffee and tea), soda, and alcohol, as they can increase urine production and lead to dehydration.

Sip on Herbal Teas or Infusions: To maintain hydration, opt for hydrating herbs like mint, hibiscus, green tea, or chamomile.

Listen to Your Body: Monitor the colour of your urine; if it is dark yellow, it may indicate dehydration. In such circumstances, make sure to increase your fluid intake.