Stay hydrated in summer with these water replacements

As the scorching heat takes its toll, with the constantly rising temperature, staying hydrated with the right summer drink becomes crucial to avoid issues like dehydration.

The skin, composed of nearly 64% water, is a direct reflection of our hydration status. Dehydrated skin loses its pliability, looks dull, flaky, becomes less supple and more susceptible to wrinkling.

When we are well-hydrated, our skin appears plump, radiant, nourished and displays fewer lines and wrinkles, as the plumpness resulting from the water reduces the appearance of these lines.

Adequate hydration also ensures the skin remains moisturised, preventing dryness and flakiness. When skin cells are well-hydrated, they swell, giving the skin a firm and youthful appearance.

Further, well-hydrated skin supports optimal barrier function, preventing the external environmental factors that accelerate ageing.

Sick of water? But still want the best hydration? Drink one of these beverages.

In cases of mild dehydration, simple rehydration is recommended by drinking fluids. Many drinks on the market effectively restore body fluids, electrolytes and salt balance.

Remember that the food you eat is just as important as the drinks you sip. By incorporating a mix of hydrating foods and beverages rich in natural electrolytes, you are equipping your body with the necessary nutrients to stay cool, nourished, and vibrant throughout the entire summer.

Coconut water

Coconut water is the translucent, or semi-clear fluid inside a young, green coconut. It comes from young coconuts about 6–7 months of age.

Coconut water can be a nutrient-rich choice for hydrating due to its high electrolyte content and low calorie.

Electrolyte content available in coconut water, such as potassium, sodium and magnesium, are charged minerals that help you stay hydrated, especially during the summer season, making it a good alternative to sugary sports drinks.

Coconut water contains 94% water and is low in added sugar and calories. With just 60 calories per 1-cup serving, coconut water is an excellent way to rehydrate without adding a lot of sugar to your diet.

Drinking coconut water is considered low-risk, but if you have health conditions that require limiting potassium, sodium, or calories, it may not be the right beverage for you.

Aam Panna

Known for its tangy and refreshing taste, aam panna is amongst the popular summer drinks in Southeast Asia. It is made from the pulp of raw green mangoes.

Rich in vitamins A and C, this age-old drink is loved for its cooling properties, which can help reduce body heat and provide relief from heat-related discomfort during the summer months.

The best part of aam panna is that you don’t need a specific variety of mangoes to make it. Raw mangoes are great to fight dehydration, which makes them apt to consume in summer.

If you often feel dehydrated and low on energy during summer, this lip-smacking summer coolant drink can be your go-to solution. Aam Panna has high water content, which helps the body to stay hydrated, especially in tropical areas.

The drink acts as a natural electrolyte solution, preventing fatigue and dizziness. Aam Panna is especially useful for those who spend a lot of time outdoors or are prone to dehydration.

Raw mangoes, along with mint and spices, help the body restore the lost salt and essential minerals due to heat. Not only does it prevent dehydration, but it also boosts immunity and aids digestion. No chemically processed drink can replace the goodness of aam panna.

Buttermilk (Chaas)

Buttermilk, a fermented dairy beverage, have long been valued in Indian households as an effective cooling agent during the summer season.

Traditional buttermilk is the residue left behind after milk cream is churned into butter. It can also be made by diluting and mixing water with curd. It is commonly known as ‘chhaas’.

Pudina chhaas is a refreshing Indian drink that acts as the perfect coolant. It contains a high water content and electrolytes like potassium, which help replenish fluids and maintain hydration and water balance in the body.

Chhaas brings down the body’s core temperature — a crucial function when dealing with extreme summer heat. It reduces internal heat and supports thermoregulation, making it ideal for consumption after outdoor activities.

Buttermilk provides probiotics, which are ‘friendly’ bacteria that help in warding away diseases and keeping the intestines healthy by introducing microbes, therefore improving immunity. It is lower in fat and calories and higher in water than both milk and yoghurt.

A glass of buttermilk can also provide relief to post-menopausal women who experience hot flashes.

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Infused water

Drinking plain water can often feel monotonous. Infused water can be a healthy and vibrant alternative to mix things up, especially if you struggle to drink enough water throughout the day.

Infusing water with fruits adds flavour without the added sugars, artificial ingredients and calories found in sugary beverages, making it more enticing to drink, and thereby, promoting hydration.

These fruit-infused water ideas are both delicious and refreshing.

By infusing tasty flavours, many people tend to drink more water. Infusion can thus be a way to make water more appealing.

Lemon-infused water and lime-infused water are some of the most popular choices, but you can also infuse water with herbs like mint, sage or basil.

Making infused water is incredibly easy. In a large pitcher, place the desired combination of fruit, vegetables and herbs. Add ice and fill the container with water. Add additional fruit or herbs to garnish, if desired. Chill in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight for a stronger flavour.

Some ingredients work better than others. Citrus fruits like lemons and limes hold up well, while berries tend to break down more quickly. For a bolder taste, prepare your infused water the night before and let it steep in the fridge.

Peel the citrus fruits to avoid a bitter taste.

Infused water is best when kept in the refrigerator for up to a week or until the flavour is no longer present, in which case you may add more infusions.

The best way to enjoy a fruit-infused water is by letting fruit blend in your reusable water bottle overnight. Even after multiple refills from a hydration station throughout the day, your water will still taste sweet and refreshing.

Banner image by Arina Krasnikova: https://www.pexels.com/photo/alcoholic-drinks-on-a-wooden-table-7376806/