Kolkata: Protein is an essential nutrient that supports muscle strength, immunity, tissue repair, hormone production and overall health. While the body’s requirement for protein remains constant, the choice of protein-rich foods can be adapted to seasonal weather, digestion, appetite and food-safety concerns.
According to Dt. Padmaja Nandi, Dietician – Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics, Narayana Hospital, Barasat, seasonal food choices can help people maintain a balanced and nutritious diet throughout the year.
Summer: During hot weather, lighter and easily digestible protein sources such as fish, eggs, chicken, curd, buttermilk, moong dal and tofu can be preferred. Grilled, steamed or boiled preparations are better suited than heavy fried foods.
Monsoon: Food hygiene becomes particularly important during the rainy season. Freshly cooked eggs, chicken, fish, dal, paneer and soy-based foods are good protein options. Raw, undercooked and stale foods should be avoided.
Autumn: With pleasant weather, people can add greater variety to their diet through fish, chicken, eggs, pulses, legumes, paneer, tofu, curd and nuts. Combining cereals with pulses can also improve the quality of plant-based protein.
Winter: Eggs, fish, lean meat, chicken, dals, beans, soy products and nuts provide nourishing protein options during winter. Warm soups, stews and home-cooked meals can make nutritious choices more appealing.
Spring: A balanced plate featuring eggs, fish, sprouts, pulses, tofu, paneer, curd and lean poultry, along with seasonal fruits and vegetables, can provide diverse nutrition.
No Single Protein Is Best
There is no single “best” protein for any particular season, the nutrition expert said. Protein choices should depend on an individual’s age, health condition, activity level and dietary preferences.
Fresh and minimally processed protein sources should be preferred, with proper food hygiene maintained. Including a protein source in every major meal can also help support a balanced diet.
Protein is not seasonal, but our food choices can be. Eating with the season and maintaining dietary balance can help nourish the body throughout the year.
