Watermelon are ideal snack options on a hot summer's day. Photo: A. Shrikumar
It's that time of the year when the mercury soars. Going out in the
scorching sun can leave you drained and it is vital to maintain body
hydration. Apart from the regular intake of water, doctors recommend
natural fruit juices and drinks. They are quick quenchers with ample
nutrients and are better than aerated soft drinks with chemical
preservatives and artificial flavours. A. Shrikumar looks into the
nutritional value and health benefits of some of them.
Palmyra Fruit (Nongu) and Pathaneer
Pathaneer and nongu are fast catching up with the city people. Many
kiosks, including government-run ones, have sprung up along the main
roads. It tastes good and is light on the pocket.
Nutritional value: Kal nongus (ripe fruits) and pathaneer are
rich in carbohydrate and moisture content. They provide plenty of
minerals such as calcium, phosphorous and iron, along with fibres and
proteins to the body. The fruit contains Vitamins A, B and C in the form
of ascorbic acid. It is perfect for the figure-conscious as it contains
zero fat.
Health benefits: The pulp is highly nutritious and the fibrous
outer layer mitigates body heat. Application of pathaneer on the body
cures boils, rashes and dermatitis.
Cucumber
Best known as the base of salads, cucumber helps you instantly regain lost energy. It is also a great snack.
Nutritional value: Cucumber has 96 per cent water that is more
nutritious than regular water. Its low calorie content makes it an ideal
diet for people looking to lose weight. Vitamins such as thiamine,
riboflavin, niacin and Vit.B9, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous,
potassium, zinc and iron are the major constituents.
Health benefits: Extremely helpful in keeping the body hydrated
and regulating body temperature. It also helps in flushing out toxins,
controls blood pressure, is beneficial for teeth and gums, promotes
joint health, and stimulates hair and nail growth.
Watermelon
The juicy, red slices of watermelon are ideal snack options on a hot summer's day.
Nutritional value: A wide range of minerals like fluoride, iron,
sodium, magnesium and potassium, optimum sugar and dietary fibres, and
also traces of vital vitamins are present. These strengthen the immune
system and keep infections at bay. Watermelon is also a concentrated
source of carotenoids, which prevent the formation of cancer cells.
Health benefits: Rich in antioxidants, watermelons can neutralise
free radicals in body and reduce the risk of colon cancer and heart
attacks. It reduces airway spasms in asthma patients. Beta carotene in
watermelon sharpens eyesight. Apart from regulating salt content in the
blood, it also eases inflammations and prevents diabetes.
Tender coconut
One of the most easily available cooling options on the roadside, tender
coconut tops the list. Though the price has increased, it continues to
be the first pick on a hot day. Nutritional value: Both the flesh
and water of tender coconut contain high moisture. Good amount of
protein, fat, sugar, dietary fibre, potassium, iron and Vitamin C are
also present, apart from the calories that can keep you brisk round the
clock.
Health benefits: Keeps the body cool, kills intestinal worms,
checks urinary infections, promotes growth, cures malnourishment and is
effective in the treatment of kidney and urethral stones.
Buttermilk
There's nothing like our good old home-made ‘mor' to beat the heat. Best
served chilled in earthen pots with a hint of pudina, lemon, coriander
leaves and cumin seeds, buttermilk definitely lifts your spirits on a
hot day.
Nutritional value: Replete with the most absorbable form of
Vitamin A, E and K, lauric acid and lecithin. It is also a vital source
of the mineral selenium, has high anti-oxidant content and saturated
fats, protein, calcium and iodine.
Health benefits: Primarily cures thyroid and adrenal problems,
fungal infections, regulates cholesterol metabolism, protects arteries,
boosts immunity and builds muscles. It also has strong anti-tumour and
anti-cancer properties. Is a quick source of energy that promotes brain
and nerve development and protects against gastrointestinal infections.
Expert Talk:
Dr. G.P. Rengarajan, Homeopathic Physician: “During summers, the need
for glucose and water content in the body increases. Natural drinks go a
long way in mitigating body heat and restoring salt balance. Moreover,
drinking natural liquids cleanses the blood and eliminates toxins.”
C. Tharanya, Dietician, Talwalkars Better Value Fitness Centre: “For
people who do heavy work, it is very important to drink water or fruit
juices as it replenishes the carbohydrate content. A balanced diet plan
should necessarily include natural drinks like buttermilk and lemon
juices.”
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