Weather conditions over the last few days have been close to harsh, with temperatures soaring and scorching heat, our bodies are constantly being tested. What makes it difficult for human bodies is the sudden drop in temperatures owing to the sporadic rainfall, or drastic change in the temperature during late evening and night hours.
The prevalent weather conditions have invited several diseases and infections which reflect in the form of dehydration, high body temperature, energy loss, body and headaches.
What should one do to ward of these unnecessary ailments and remain fit without making too many changes to the present lifestyle! Regular exercises, morning walks and regulated diets are some of the things that one could look at seriously; and diet includes a healthy and a nutritious liquid diet as well.
Non-alcoholic summer drinks are not just thirst quenchers but also great source of nutrients for our bodies.
A regular fluid intake from our daily diet is crucial to maintain good health. This is because the human body does not store water in the way it stores calories (as glycogen or body fat), so we need a constant supply every day. The human body losses, on an average, 6-12 cups of water each day. Most healthy
adults need about one and a half litres to three litres a day so aim to drink atleast 6 to 8 glasses of fluid daily.
Dietician Amita Grover helps us know about a few ‘drinks’ that can help us stay refreshed and ailment free. Butter Milk (chaach/lassi) Buttermilk is lower in fat than regular milk, because the fat has been removed to make butter. It is also high in potassium, vitamin B12, calcium, and riboflavin as well as
a good source of phosphorus. Those with digestive problems are often advised to drink buttermilk rather than milk, as it is more quickly digested. Buttermilk has more lactic acid than skim milk. One cup of buttermilk has 99 calories and 2.2 grams of fat, whereas whole milk has 157 calories and 8.9 grams of
fat. It is also an excellent source of protein and calcium. Butter milk is easily available in Tetra Pak in ready-to-drink form. Mother Dairy stores or other departmental stores keep butter milk cartons that are convenient to carry and store. These cartons also come with the assurance of hygiene and being bacteria free.
Fresh lime (nimbu paani)
Low on calories and high on health count ‘nimbu paani’ is the healthiest way to quench thirst and refresh your body. Lemon is high on vitamin C and ‘nimbu paani’ acts as a natural hydrant in these harsh weather conditions. It is best advised that consumers prefer packaged ‘fresh lime’ over what is sold by street vendors. Drinks sold by vendors are the commonest reasons for stomach infections that hit us during summers and monsoon.
Aam Panna
It is a traditional preparation of roasted or boiled raw mangoes and very well known in north India. ‘Aam Panna’ is a great digestive aid and an instant energy infuser. It also helps prevent heat strokes, dehydration and dryness of mouth and tongue in acute summer conditions. If your hectic schedule prevents you from making ‘aam panna’ at home then go for packaged ‘aam panna’ which is
easily available in merchant stores.
Fruit and Vegetable juices
Fruit and Vegetable juices are rich in minerals and microelements that are necessary for the nerve and muscle function and are the building material for some body tissues. These juices contain substantial amounts of carbohydrates, which supply energy to human body to live and perform other functions.
Since fruits and vegetables contain generous amounts of vitamins, these vitamins regulate metabolism and help in the conversion of the fats and carbohydrates into energy. Fruit and vegetable juices are also
known for their therapeutic benefits for centuries now.
So, don’t let the weather bother you - get on with these instant ‘refreshers’.