Written By: Kriti Saraswat | Updated : May 15, 2015 3:17 PM IST
The smouldering summer heat can leave you feeling fatigued, lethargic, dehydrated and thirsty. Quench your thirst in a healthy and tasty way by having these 10 summer drinks.
Aam panna
Aam panna is a very popular drink more so because mangoes are in season only a few months of the year. This refreshing drink is made using raw mangoes which are a rich source of vitamin C and also contain antioxidants which prevent us from several diseases. In addition to this, the drink has a cooling effect on the body and prevents one from a heat stroke and dehydration. This makes it quite healthy and tasty too. The spices added further enhance the flavour. Aam panna is best enjoyed which it is chilled. Here's a recipe to of aam panna.
Buttermilk or chhaas
Chhaas or buttermilk is another digestive and soothing drink for the summer months. Usually had after meals, it is made using curd, water and spices like pepper, salt, ginger, jeera, etc. The reason it is extremely good for summers is because it fights dehydration. It also helps soothe your stomach after eating anything too spicy. Read more health benefits of chhaas here.
Barley water
Barley is rich in fibre and other nutrients which makes it healthy for our body. It also has zinc, copper, phosphorous and selenium in it which help protect our body against various diseases including cancer. All you need to do is boil some barley seeds in water and then keep taking sips of this drink throughout the day. it helps keep the body cool, prevents constipation and gall stones.
Lemonade or nimbu paani
Perhaps the cheapest summer drink but lemonade is surely very effective in beating the summer heat. Apart from being a rich source of vitamin C, lemon also has vitamin B, riboflavin and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium. Just take some chilled water and squeeze a lemon in it and you have your lemonade. Many people even add sugar or salt to enhance the taste of this drink but keeping it simple will also do your body good.
Watermelon juice
This juicy fruit in itself is a summer treat but the juice is not bad either. If you do not like getting seeds in your mouth, you should consider making watermelon juice. It has a host of health benefits. Watermelon helps you lose weight as is 90% water and a 100g will only give you 30 calories. It also relives post-workout muscle soreness and is good for your kidney, eyes and heart. Add some mint leaves and rock salt to lessen the sweet taste if you want.
Mango milkshake/lassi
Mango isn't called the king of fruits without a reason. It has several health benefits such as increasing one's immunity, controlling blood pressure, preventing anemia and many more. When mixed with milk or curd, you can make it even more nutritious. Both make for a yummy summer drink and are quite popular amongst kids. These ingredients are good sources of protein and can be had as a post-workout drink.
Jaljeera
An appetising summer drink, jaljeera is quite popular in north India. It is has a sweet and spicy taste to it which makes it so palatable. It is a concoction of cumin seeds, tamarind, black pepper, mint and water. Many people even add boondi (tiny fried balls) to it. These days, you can buy packaged jaljeera powder from the market and simply mix it with chilled water to make this drink.
Sugarcane juice
Prevent a heatstroke by drinking sugarcane juice in the summer. It packs a punch of instant energy and also helps fight common infections. Apart from this, sugarcane juice is rich in potassium, glucose, antioxidants, calcium and magnesium. It is also good for instant hydration. Make sure the water and ice added to it is hygienic and you have a wonderful summer drink. Read more benefits of sugarcane juice here.
Coconut water
Want to refuel for body? Have some coconut water. Extremely cooling and pure, coconut water is something which can be found on the streets of India. It has so many nutrients such as amino acids, B vitamins, zero cholesterol and it also a diuretic. Coconut water helps you recover from diarrhea, adds a glow in your skin and also reduces one's risk of a kidney stone. The good thing is, you can directly drink it from the coconut fruit. Read more benefits of coconut water here.
Water
While all these drinks are good, don't underestimate the power of water. It is highly essential in the summer as you lose so much of it due to the heat, sweat, etc and loss of water can lead to severe dehydration. Make sure you drink ample amounts to keep your body, skin and mind healthy. it gets rid of toxins from our body, maintains body temperature, helps in digestion and other essential body functions. Here are some more reasons to drink water.
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