List of Healthy and Refreshing Summer Drinks
Summer is here and the scorching temperatures can drain us. It can cause problems like dehydration and heatstroke. Fortunately, many delicious and nutritious drinks will keep you cool and refreshed during the hot months. From traditional favorites like nimbu pani and aam panna to exotic delicacies like thandai and sattu drinks, here are the 10 best drinks to quench your thirst and boost your health this summer.
1. Nimbu Pani (Lemonade)
Recipe:
- Mix fresh lemon juice
- Water
- Sugar/honey
- A pinch of salt
- Add ice cubes and garnish with mint leaves (Optinal)
Benefits:
- Nimbu pani is a good source of Vitamin C which boosts the immune system and aids digestion.
- It also helps in detoxifying the body and rejuvenating the skin.
Who to avoid:
People with citrus allergies or sensitive stomachs should consume nimbu pani in moderation.
Properties:
- Lemon is rich in citric acid and antioxidants which have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Lemons have vitamin C. They act as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from harmful free radicals and potentially preventing a variety of diseases.
- Beyond its antioxidant properties, vitamin C contributes to important body processes such as collagen synthesis, protein metabolism, and iron absorption.
- Adequate intake of vitamin C is essential for maintaining overall health, but deficiency can lead to increased susceptibility to infections, dry skin, fatigue, and other negative effects.
2. Aam Panna
Aam Panna Recipe: Boil raw mango until soft, peel, and mix with mint leaves, sugar, roasted cumin powder, and salt. Dilute with water and serve chilled.
Benefits: Aam Panna is rich in vitamin C and iron, perfect for boosting immunity and preventing heat stroke. It also aids in digestion and prevents dehydration.
Who should avoid: People with diabetes should consume Aam Panna in moderation due to its sugar content.
Features: Raw mangoes are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and pectin, which can help improve digestion and lower cholesterol levels. Aam Panna acts as an effective cooling agent.
Raw mangoes have antipyretic properties and help reduce the rise in body temperature associated with sunstroke, which can reach dangerous levels of over 40 degrees Celsius.
Lowering your body temperature can also help prevent complications such as seizures. Aam Panna helps in balancing properties and relieves weakness by replenishing lost fluids and salts.
3. Lassi
Lassi Recipe: Mix yogurt with water or milk, sugar, and a pinch of cardamom or saffron. You can also change the taste by adding fruits such as mango or strawberries if desired.
Benefits: Lassi is a probiotic-rich drink that supports digestion, promotes gut health, and cools the body. Furthermore, it is rich in calcium and protein, making it highly nutritious.
Who should avoid: People with lactose intolerance or milk allergy should choose dairy-free alternatives.
Features: Yogurt is rich in probiotics, calcium, and protein that promote digestive health and strengthen bones.
4. Coconut Water
Coconut Water Recipe: It’s the simplest of all. Just crack open a fresh coconut and drink the clear, sweet water inside.
Benefits: Coconut water is a natural electrolyte drink that replenishes fluids and minerals lost in hot weather. It also aids digestion, promotes hydration, and promotes kidney health.
Who should avoid: People with kidney disease or potassium deficiency should consult a doctor before consuming coconut water regularly.
Features: Coconut water is rich in potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants and is an excellent hydration drink. Antioxidants fight free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
5. Jaljeera
Jaljeera Recipe: Mix roasted cumin powder, black salt, mint leaves, tamarind pulp, and lemon juice in water. Optionally add a pinch of chaat masala for extra flavor.
Benefits: Jaljeera promotes digestion, relieves bloating, and cools the body in hot summers. It also stimulates your appetite and prevents heat-related illnesses.
Who should avoid: People with high blood pressure should consume jaljeera in moderation as it contains salt.
Properties: Cumin seeds are known for their digestive properties and are rich in iron, manganese, and antioxidants.
6. Satu Drink
Satu Drink Recipe: Mix Satu (roasted chickpea flour) with water, lemon juice, roasted cumin powder and salt. Add sweetness with jaggery or sugar according to your preference.
Benefits: Sattu Drink is a nutrient-rich, cooling drink that provides instant energy, aids digestion, and regulates blood sugar levels. It is also rich in protein and dietary fiber.
Who should avoid: People with gluten intolerance should always use gluten-free Satou flour.
Features: Sats are rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium.
7. Thandai
Thandai Recipe: Soak almonds, cashews, melon seeds, poppy seeds, and fennel seeds in water overnight. Mix with milk, sugar, saffron, cardamom, and rose water. Cool and serve.
Benefits: Thandai is a traditional Indian drink consumed during festivals such as Holi. It cools the body, aids digestion, and provides important nutrients.
Who should avoid: Pregnant women should avoid thandai as it contains spices and herbs.
Features: Thandai ingredients such as almonds, fennel seeds, and saffron are known for their cooling and digestive effects.
Thandai has a positive effect on digestion as it contains spices such as cardamom, which aid in digestion and reduce bloating.
It also contains nuts and seeds that are highly nutritious and rich in healthy fats, protein, and various vitamins. Plus, it hydrates you and strengthens your immune system, making it the perfect summer drink for your overall health.
8. Sugarcane Juice
Sugarcane Juice Recipe: Crush or squeeze fresh sugarcane to extract the juice. If desired, add a pinch of lemon or ginger for extra flavor.
Benefits: Sugarcane juice is a natural cooling agent that hydrates the body, replenishes lost electrolytes, and increases energy levels. It also helps detoxify the liver and improve skin health.
Who should avoid: People with diabetes should consume sugarcane juice in moderation due to its high sugar content.
Properties: Sugarcane juice is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
9. Buttermilk (Chaas)
Buttermilk (Chaas) Recipe: Mix yogurt with water, salt, roasted cumin powder, and chopped coriander or mint leaves. Stir everything until smooth and serve chilled.
Benefits: Buttermilk is a probiotic-rich drink that aids digestion, reduces acidity, and cools the body. It also helps in maintaining electrolyte balance and prevents dehydration.
Who should avoid: People with lactose intolerance or milk allergy should choose dairy-free alternatives.
Features: Buttermilk contains probiotics, calcium, and vitamins like B12 and riboflavin that promote gut health and strengthen the immune system.
Frequently asked questions about summer drinks:
Are these drinks suitable for children?
Do these drinks help you lose weight?
Are these drinks suitable for people with diabetes?
Can I replace dairy with plant-based alternatives in these recipes?
Are these drinks suitable for consumption during pregnancy?
Sum up,
Stay cool and hydrated this summer with these refreshing drinks that not only quench your thirst but also provide countless health benefits. Aiding digestion and strengthening your immune system, these drinks will keep you feeling refreshed on even the hottest days. Stay hydrated while enjoying the taste of summer!
