Top 10 refreshing summer drinks to hydrate your body
Hydration is very important for good health, but it is more important during the summers – when the heat is at its peak. The scorching heat makes us drained and low on energy and dehydrated. Dehydration means that the water lost from your body (through sweat, urine, etc.) is more than what you are drinking. And if not taken care of at the right time it can lead to serious problems.
Symptoms of dehydration:
Symptoms of dehydration are as follows:
- Headache
- Dark yellow coloured urine
- Tiredness
- Low blood pressure
- Dizziness and fatigue
- Dry mouth, lips and tongue
- Muscle cramps
- Constipation
- Sunken eyes
How to stay hydrated in summers?
In order to stay hydrated, experts recommend drinking at least 2 litres of water every day. However drinking plain water to stay hydrated can sometimes be difficult. This is the time when we can introduce summer drinks to our daily routine. These drinks are not only refreshing and nutritious, but also help to keep our body cool. So here are 10 best and nutritious summer drinks that you should not miss out on.
1. Coconut water
In addition to hydrating our body, coconut water replenishes our body with electrolytes (potassium, sodium and magnesium) which are lost through the sweat during summers. They are a good source of vitamin C that helps to boost immunity. Being high in natural sugars is a quick fix to elevate the energy levels. It can be enjoyed on its own or can be added in smoothies.
2. Lime juice or lemonade
Lemonade or lime juice - a combination of lemon, salt, sugar and water is the best way to stay hydrated during a hot summer day. Lime contains Vitamin C which supports the immune system. It stimulated the secretion of digestive juices, thus preventing indigestion. Like coconut water, lime juice is also a low calorie energy drink.
3. Buttermilk
A drink made by our very own and staple curd, buttermilk is a great probiotic (contains good bacteria, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium ) and takes care of all the gut related problems. It is rich in calcium, Vitamin B12 and potassium and is an excellent drink to take care of indigestion, bloating and constipation problems.
4. Kokum juice
Kokum juice instantly makes you feel cool inside out. A compound Garcinol present in kokum is known to give kokum its immunity boosting and antioxidant properties. Kokum also improves digestion, prevents constipation and bloating. As stated in International Research Journal Of Pharmacy, Kokum is said to control appetite because of its anorectic property. The hydroxy citric acid present in kokum helps in regulating cholesterol levels.
5. Watermelon juice
Watermelon juice is high in water content and will help you relieve fatigue and give you an instant boost of energy. Along with helping in hydration, watermelon juice also helps to improve digestion because of its high fibre content. It is rich in Vitamin A, C, B6, minerals like calcium, potassium, magnesium and a variety of amino acids, antioxidants and lycopene.
6. Sugarcane juice
It is a great summer juice as it helps to regulate the electrolyte imbalance within the body. Sugarcane juice is beneficial in maintaining heart health because of its high potassium content. It is known to be a great diuretic and may help in treating kidney stones and urinary tract infection and makes sure that the kidneys function properly. It is also a good source of magnesium, calcium and iron.
7. Wood apple juice
Wood apple juice is a great summer drink as it not only helps to prevent sunstroke but also aids in digestion, relieving constipation and promotes a healthy gut. It is packed with Vitamin C, A, B complex vitamins and vital minerals like iron, phosphorus and calcium. The various vitamins, minerals and antioxidants present in wood apple juice helps to fight against all the illnesses that are common during summers.
8. Cucumber juice
Cucumber juice is one of the best summer drinks because of its high water content (95% water). It not only helps to hydrate the body and flush out the toxins but also acts as an antioxidant, is antimicrobial and helps to reduce skin irritation and inflammation. It also helps to soothe, moisturize and keep the skin cool during the scorching summers.
9. Carrot juice with lemon and ginger
Carrot, lemon and ginger juice is a powerhouse of nutrients which benefit by boosting the immune system to stay away from summer illness. One glass of this juice is packed with Vitamin A and C required by the body on a daily basis. It is also good for maintaining vision and skin health. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and is known to cleanse the body and reduce nausea.
10. Aam ka panna
Aam panna is an ancient summer drink recipe which not only helps to quench thirst and give a cooling effect but has numerous health benefits. Raw mangoes used to make aam ka panna stimulates secretion of bile juice from the liver and hence helps in digestion and also in breaking down fat. It is a good source of Vitamin C, Iron and folic acid which strengthens the immune system and gives a glowing skin.
Conclusion:
The simple mantra to stay healthy in summers is to stay hydrated. Water is always a promising solution but might not always be pleasing for the taste buds and this is when we can try all the above summer drinks. They help in keeping you hydrated and also provide with a variety of nutrients, thus preventing all the summer related health issues. Just try not to add any sugars and caffeine and keep them natural. So this summer try these summer drinks and stay refreshed.
