Digital Desk: As summer heat persists, staying hydrated is crucial…
The September summer heat continues to linger, making it necessary to stay cool and hydrated. As the sun constantly sucks energy from us, we must find effective ways to keep ourselves hydrated and maximize our fluid intake to tackle the scorching heat. The rising temperature produces immense heat and drenches your body. Excess heat drains out body fluid in the form of sweat, leaving us fatigued and dehydrated. Water is extremely important for the proper functioning of every organ. Therefore, staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining physical well-being and to protecting oneself from heatstroke.
To compensate for the excess fluid loss and prevent dehydration, it is absolutely important to keep ourselves hydrated. Instead of relying on artificial cooling methods to combat the heat, turn to these traditional Indian drinks, which are healthy as well. During the summer, Thekera Tenga, Lemonade, Belor Sarbat, and Coconut Water are widely used in northeast India.
Here is a list of summer drinks loaded with vitamins and minerals that all Assamese swear by:
· Thekera tenga( garcinia pedunculata) juice : the most powerful pack of antioxidants found in nature, comes from thekera. The thekera fruit undergoes a dramatic transformation, from being green at the beginning to changing color to purple and almost black when dried. The Garcinia plant is of Southeast Asian origin and is also found in North-East India. Dried thekera pieces are soaked in water for a while, and then it is used along with the water as a souring agent in various Assamese cuisines. It is a great summer drink that can relieve fatigue and headaches. To make this drink, soak a few pieces of dried thekera in a glass of water for a few hours, sieve the water, mix it with a pinch of salt and sugar, and add a few ice cubes.
· Belor sarbat (wood apple) juice: Bel juice is made from the mushy pulp of the fruit, which is yellow-orange in color with a sweet taste. It is said that this fruit can treat many illnesses, including digestive problems. To make this drink, extract the pulp from the fruit with a spoon, making sure to remove any seeds. Next, add a glass of water to the pulp and let it soak for about an hour. After an hour, blend the mixture using a blender for a few minutes until it is smooth. Strain the juice and add salt,black pepper, and sugar accordingly.
· Lemonade: If life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Lemonade is not just delicious, but this drink carries various nutritional benefits. . It cools down and replenishes lost fluids in our bodies. To make this drink, squeeze a few lemons to extract their juice, add mint leaves, and then add a pinch of salt and sugar according to your taste, and lastly, add cold water.
· Daab (coconut water): It is a nutrient-rich fruit packed with essential minerals. It can instantly boost energy and replenish lost water in our bodies. Slice open the top of a fresh green coconut, put in a straw, and enjoy.
Stay cool and healthy this September.