Written By: Pavitra Sampath | Updated : May 15, 2015 3:17 PM IST
The summers seem to be beating down on us and with the heat come diseases like heatstrokes and bouts of dehydration. But there is one summer drink that can help you overcome the sweltering heat and other diseases in a jiffy sugarcane juice. Here are 10 reasons you should have a glass of sugarcane juice everyday this summer.
Is a potent energy booster:
Sugarcane contains a large amount of glucose along with other compounds. The glucose and other electrolytes make it an instant pick-me-up. Not only does it give you that instant boost of energy, but if drunk when cold, it helps cool down the body during the harsh summers. Read why energy drinks can adversely affect your health.
Is a great drink for diabetics:
If you thought sugarcane was bad for diabetics, you are mistaken. Sugarcane has glucose but also has a low glycaemic index than instant sugar, making it the perfect energy drink for diabetics. Not only does it give them essential amounts of sugar but also does so safely. So, if you are a diabetic and crave something sweet, sip on a glass of sugarcane juice for that instant fix. Read more about a sample plan for diabetics.
Fights against cancer
Sugarcane is packed with antioxidants that have a very potent effect on the body. According to a study published in the Journal of Phytochemistry{3}, flavones present in sugarcane juice are highly effective in stopping the production and spread of cancerous cells. Another study found that the juice was especially effective in curbing the onset and spread of prostate and breast cancer. Read more about cancer.
Beats dehydration
The summer heat and high amount of humidity make one very prone to dehydration. But sugarcane juice can definitely thwart that ill effect of the summers. Packed with a high concentration of calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and manganese, sugarcane juice acts a perfect drink to replenish lost electrolytes and water. Read more about tips to beat dehydration this summer.
Helps your kidneys function better and beats urinary tract infections:
Sugarcane juice contains a large amount of proteins, making it perfect to help your kidneys function optimally. Moreover it is alkaline in nature and is the perfect antibiotic agent. Apart from that, when had in a diluted form (diluted with water or coconut water) it works perfectly to relieve the pain and burning sensation most people experience during a bout of urinary tract infection. Read about the 5 foods that can help you recover from kidney disease.
Is a potent antioxidant:
According to a study published in the Journal of Food Chemistry{1}, researchers found that the compounds present in sugarcane juice has the ability to not only scavenge free radicals, but also reduced the production of iron complex and inhibit lipid peroxidation all processes that lead to the deterioration of the body and its organs.
Keeps your liver healthy
Sugarcane is known to keep your bilirubin levels in check, that is one of the reasons that this juice is used in Ayurveda to treat conditions like jaundice. But, apart from that, sugarcane has a protective effect on the liver as well. According to the Journal of Asian Functional Foods{2} sugarcane juice actually helps protect the liver from damage and acts as a palliative to a damaged liver. So, if you have been on a binge drinking spree, have suffered from jaundice, or just want to care for your liver, have a glass of sugarcane juice everyday. Read more about foods that can keep your liver healthy.
Acts an effective digestive agent
Sugarcane juice has large amounts of potassium in it, making it the perfect agent to aid in digestion. The potassium also acts as an antimicrobial agent protecting your stomach from infections and improve peristalsis (the movement of food through the stomach).
Gives you healthy skin:
Packed with a compounds called alphahydroxy acid and glycolic acid, sugarcane is an elixir for the skin. It not only helps reduce acne, but also reduces the appearance of blemishes, prevents ageing and keeps your skin hydrated. The glycolic acid is especially known for its instant benefits when applied on the skin. So the next time you see a pimple on your face, don't panic, just apply some sugarcane juice to it. You can also add it to your favorite mask or face pack and use it as a scrub too. Read about 9 foods that can give you healthy skin.
Helps fight bad breath and other common infections:
Due to the high mineral content, potassium and alkaline nature, sugarcane makes a very effective antimicrobial agent. The minerals present in the juice keep the teeth healthy and the other agents prevent tooth decay due to infections. It is also known to boost one's immunity and keep common infections at bay. Here are natural ways to beat bad breath.
References:
{1} Antioxidant activity in sugarcane juice and its protective role against radiation induced DNA damage -- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308814607007479
{2} Antioxidants and other functional extracts from sugarcane - https://www.danielecevolani.it/dati/ContentManager/files/Prodotti/Mitsui/Antioxidants_and_other_functional_extracts_from_sugarcane.109130132.pdf
{3} Antiproliferative and antioxidant activities of a tricin acylated glycoside from sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) juice - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0031942207000544
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