By Anita Marwaha
As April ushers in the Indian summer, rising temperatures lead to increased loss of fluids and essential salts through sweat. To stay hydrated and maintain your energy, it's vital to consume drinks that cool the body, aid digestion, and restore electrolytes. Here are some of the best traditional options to include in your diet.
Aam Panna (Raw Mango Cooler) It is made from raw mango pulp, roasted cumin powder, black salt and mint leaves. We can use jaggery instead of white sugar to keep it mineral-rich. It is rich in vitamin C and electrolytes; improves digestion and appetite. It also protects against heat stroke and best consumed in the afternoon.
Chaas (Spiced Buttermilk) Unlike heavy lassi, thin chaas is the gold standard for April. It contains healthy bacteria for the gut and helps in digesting summer meals. It is made up of yogurt by adding water, fresh coriander, ginger and curry leaves to enhance its cooling effect. It reduces heat and acidity and is refreshing after meals.
Jaljeera It is made by adding cumin, mint, tamarind and black pepper to water. It not only prevents bloating but heaviness also in hot weather.
Sattu Sharbat It is called "poor man's protein shake" and is made from roasted gram flour or sattu. Mix 2 tablespoons of sattu in chilled water with roasted cumin powder, black salt and a squeeze of lemon for this drink. It provides instant energy, is high in fibre and keeps the body cool for hours.
Thandai It is called a royal coolant and is made from a paste of almonds, fennel seeds, watermelon kernels, rose petals and cardamom mixed with cold milk. It's nutrient-dense and exceptionally cooling for the brain and body.
Phalsa Sharbat It is from the tiny purple phalsa berries available only for a few weeks in summer. It is legendary in Ayurveda for its ability to purify the blood and act as a potent heart and liver coolant.
Bel Sharbat (Wood Apple) April is the peak season for bel fruit. It acts as a natural laxative and cools the stomach lining, preventing acidity common in hot weather.
Coriander Seed Water For this drink, soak 2 tablespoons of coriander seeds in water overnight. Strain and drink it in the morning. It is a natural diuretic and helps cool the pitta (heat) in the body.
Aloe Vera and Lychee Juice It is made up of fresh aloe vera pulp and lychee pulp. It is excellent for skin hydration and preventing the "burning" sensation often felt during extreme heat.
Gulkand Milk/Water Gulkand (sun-cooked rose petal preserve) is one of the strongest coolants. Mix a spoonful in cold milk or water before bed to reduce internal body heat and prevent mouth ulcers.
Tender Coconut Water It is called nature's own IV drip. It has a biological composition similar to human plasma and is the best way to replenish potassium lost through sweat.
Watermelon juice It is very hydrating, fresh and low in calories.
Sugarcane Juice It is an instant energy booster that helps counteract the dehydrating effects of summer.
One should avoid drinking ice loaded soft drinks, energy drinks, excess tea or coffee and packaged fruit juices during this hot weather.
