Sbig App
Install our App to get easy Access toBuy, Link, Renew, Claim and More
Get

Beat the Heat with These 10 Healthy Indian Summer Coolers

blog
Dec 14, 2019
expertexpertexpert

With each passing year, the temperatures in summers seem to be setting new records. The scorching heat through the summer months leaves you parched for some refreshing drinks. This summer choose some refreshing traditional Indian chillers to cool you down instead of guzzling carbonated drinks.

 

Every region in India, has its own unique version of a summer drink, perfected over generations, to keep the heat at bay. Made from seasonal fruits, herbs and spices, these traditional drinks are not only refreshing but are packed with nutrients too. Moreover, each of them has a unique story, which is a rich medley of ancient culture and nostalgic memories. Hope you will rediscover these amazing thirst- quenchers.

1. Aam Pana

One of the advantages of living in a tropical country like India, is that you get to indulge in mango-based drinks. Made from fresh green mangoes (Kairi), this enticing sweet-sour-spicy drink, which could easily get you nostalgic, is mostly popular in North Western India. It is very beneficial in the treatment of gastro-intestinal disorders and is rich in vitamin C content.

2. Piyush

A summer drink devoured in Maharashtra and Gujrat, Piyush is a creamy concoction made from shrikhand, buttermilk, nutmeg, saffron and an assortment of dry fruits. The word Piyush, literally means ‘amrit’(drink of the Gods). Apart from its soothing taste, it is rich in calcium and vitamin E and B6.

3. Kokum

Sherbet A sweet and sour drink that is made from Kokum, a sweet and sour fruit that grows only on the Konkan coast. It is a vibrant red drink that works as an appetizer too. Kokum is also consumed as sol kadi, a mellow coconut milk-based drink that perfectly balances the spicy food of the coast.

4. Thandaai

Native to North India, Thandaai is a popular drink associated with festivals like Holi and Shivaratri. Holi literally means ‘cool drink’. It celebrates the onset of Spring followed by summer. It a tantalising version of milk energised with almonds, rose petals, pepper, vetiver seeds, cardamom, fennel seeds, magaztari seeds (watermelon kernel), saffron and sugar. This decadent drink is a soothing refresher.

5. Gulab Sarbat

A brilliant melange of lemon juice, cardamom seeds, rose petals and sugar. Gulab sarbat is traditionally consumed in Rajasthan to bring respite from the rising temperatures. It helps cool the body and mind.

6. Sattu ka Sharbat

Sattu drink is very popular in Eastern India. It is a sweet drink made from roasted black chickpea. This drink is popular not only for its cooling properties, but also for its nutritional quotient. Rich in protein, fibre, calcium, iron, manganese and magnesium, it is a wholesome drink in the summer. The high amount of insoluble fibre helps cleanse your colon, rejig your digestive system and relieve you from constipation and acidity. Sattu is a low-glycaemic index food and is a great option for diabetics.

7. Gondhoraj Ghol

Bengal’s own version of the buttermilk. Gondhoraj Ghol is a refreshing mix of curd, sugar, black salt, iced water and the pulpy juice of Gondhoraj lime. It is a subtle aroma and an unusual flavour, that gets most Bengalis ecstatic.

8. Sambharam/Neer Mor

A summer favourite in south India, sambaaram (also called neer mor) is a delicious spicy buttermilk made from curd, green chillies, ginger and yoghurt. Every state in the south has its own version of this summer staple which is believed to have digestive, probiotic, hydrating and reviving properties.

9. Ragi Ambali

Ragi(finger millet) ambali, also known as ragi java, is a popular drink in south India (particularly Karnataka) to beat the searing heat during summer. This traditional drink is packed with protein and gives instant energy boost.

10. Panakam

A savoured household drink in south India, Panakam is concoction of jaggery, cardamom, pepper and ginger. With a great balance of essential electrolytes, it is a refreshingly tasty drink that can get you asking you for more.

So, remain cool and healthy with these homemade summer drinks which are not only delicious but are extremely nutritious too.

While these refreshing drinks help you stay cool in the scorching summer heat, maintaining good health requires more than just hydration. A comprehensive health insurance plan ensures financial security against unexpected medical expenses, helping you focus on your well-being without worries. Stay protected and enjoy a stress-free summer with the right health coverage tailored to your needs.

This blog is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. The content may include outdated information regarding the topic discussed. Readers are encouraged to confirm the accuracy and relevance of the data before making any significant decisions. SBI General Insurance disclaims responsibility for any errors or consequences arising from the use of outdated information provided herein.

Recent Blogs

icon

Health Insurance

Beat the Heat with These 10 Healthy Indian Summer Coolers

With each passing year, the temperatures in summers seem to be setting new records. The scorching heat through the summer months leaves you parched for some refreshing drinks. This summer choose some refreshing traditional Indian chillers to cool you down instead of guzzling carbonated drinks.
icon

Health Insurance

12 Winter Skin Care Routine

Skin's natural barrier can be weakened due to cold winds and low humidity, making it dry, irritated, and sensitive. But understanding these effects helps you feel more prepared to protect your skin this winter. Keeping up with the skincare routine in winter is key to protecting the skin barrier, keeping the skin moisturised, and preventing damage from the season's stressors.
icon

Health Insurance

6 foods to avoid winter illness and stay healthy

Winter pollution and cold can disrupt your routine, raise stress and lead to overeating and weakened immunity. We recommend a balanced diet with enough protein to curb hunger pangs, and extra sleep to reduce stress. Oats & Honey Oats are a filling budget food to boost energy. They are high in immunity-boosting zinc and fibre to stabilize blood sugar. Honey’s antioxidants also boost immunity, and its anti-microbial properties kill bacteria & soothe sore throats. Pomegranates Pomegranate juice is rich in vitamin B and antioxidants, which curbs harmful cholesterol that leads to plaque build-up in the arteries. Its seeds can reduce chances of cancer, heart disease and high blood pressure. Citrus Fruits Citrus fruits contain vitamin C which boosts immunity (one orange contains a day’s worth). Their potassium helps maintain electrolyte balance. They are also high in fibre, which controls blood sugar and cholesterol. Sweet Potatoes A popular winter food, sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamins A and C. They contain antioxidants that reduce cell damage in the body, while their high fibre content helps stabilize blood sugar levels. Dark Greens Dark leafy vegetables are low in calories and rich in beta-carotene and vitamin C – both powerful antioxidants that help fight infections & build immunity. Cold weather even reduces their bitterness, making them tastier. Carrots Carrots are loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants. They also contain beta-carotene, which turns to vitamin A in the body, boosting immunity and enabling healthier eyes, skin & mucus membranes. Which Spices? Mustard and ajwain are a great flu remedy, stimulating digestion and increasing blood circulation. Methi soothes bone and joint problems that crop up in winter, while fresh turmeric is a great anti-microbial immunity booster.
icon

Health Insurance

6 Natural Ingredients for Soft Skin in Winter

As winter approaches, it’s essential to provide extra care for your skin to keep it soft and nourished. With dry humidity, cold winds, and indoor heating, it's easy for the skin to feel dry and uncomfortable. Practicing natural winter skincare by incorporating the right ingredients into your routine can allow the skin to feel truly cared for and protected during the winter. Let’s learn more in this regard.