Introduction

From June to September, we revel in the monsoon rains, a season that brings a refreshing change to our predominantly agricultural society. As the skies darken and the landscapes turn lush green, the monsoon season ushers in hope and beauty. It's truly a lifeline for India! This season blesses us with mesmerizing weather, breathtaking rainbows, and the perfect excuse for indulging in hot snacks. However, amidst the heavy rains and the lush greenery, there's a downside to contend with – the relentless humidity. This high humidity can make us feel sticky and uncomfortable as our sweat struggles to evaporate and cool us down, leaving us feeling a bit irritated and fuzzy. Unfortunately, this season also brings with it the risk of flu, cough, and other viruses.

Staying hydrated is crucial for our overall health, and while we diligently consume plenty of water and fluids during the scorching summer months, we often overlook this essential habit when the monsoon arrives. You see, during the monsoon, we don't often feel thirsty due to the lower temperatures, leading to reduced water intake. However, it's important to understand that our bodies still require optimal hydration, regardless of the season.

The high humidity levels during the monsoon can cause our bodies to lose water rapidly through sweat, leaving us feeling lethargic and dehydrated. To combat this, we need to replenish our bodies with not just water but also essential electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals. Dehydration can have serious consequences, so it's highly recommended to ensure you're getting an adequate amount of water.

When it comes to consuming water during the monsoon, it's imperative to prioritize clean and safe drinking water. Diseases like cholera and diarrhea are more common during this season, so make sure your water is properly filtered or boiled. Avoid drinking water from unhygienic sources like roadside stalls or juice vendors. Carry a reusable water bottle or opt for a sealed, treated water bottle when needed.

Steer clear of replacing your liquid intake with carbonated, caffeinated, or alcoholic beverages, as the sugars and preservatives in these drinks act as diuretics and can lead to further dehydration. Instead, opt for warm herbal teas, especially those with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, to boost your immunity. Consider swapping your morning cup of regular tea for herbal varieties like ginger tea or chamomile tea, which are excellent immune boosters.

If you're unsure whether you're staying adequately hydrated, here's a simple test: pinch the skin on your knuckle. If it quickly goes back to its normal position, you're well-hydrated. However, if it takes longer to return or remains raised, you need to increase your water intake.

But here's the silver lining – we've compiled a list of the top monsoon drinks to keep you hydrated and refreshed during the monsoon, so you can fully enjoy the season without worries!

Watermelon Juice

This delightful drink is the perfect hydrator during the humid monsoon season. Packed with vitamins A, B6, B1, and C, watermelon not only keeps you hydrated but also provides numerous health benefits. With its high water content and a dose of amino acids, antioxidants, and lipoxin, it's a must-try.

Smoothies

These are an excellent way to replenish lost electrolytes and nutrients. Packed with whole foods like fruits, seeds, vegetables, and nuts, smoothies offer a nutritious way to stay energized.

Pomegranate Juice

With its ruby-red arils, pomegranate juice is a refreshing choice for the season. It supports healthy blood flow, regulates blood pressure, and even lowers bad cholesterol. This fruit is a true winner in taste and health benefits.

Guava

Not only does guava help maintain your health during the monsoon, but it also aids in weight management. Loaded with vitamin C, guava nourishes your skin, hair, and body. Opt for monsoon drinks like Natural Guava Gush that retain the whole fruit's goodness.

Ginger, Lemon, and Aloe Vera Drinks

This trio can boost your metabolism and mood, while also warding off common colds. Enjoy monsoon drinks that combine ginger, lemon, and aloe vera for a healthy and tasty way to stay resilient during the monsoon.

Buttermilk (Chaas)

This curd-based drink offers a cooling effect on the body. It contains beneficial bacteria that aid digestion, reduce fat, and provide proteins and vitamins. Add black salt or roasted cumin powder for extra flavor.

Sattu Ka Sharbat

This lesser-known drink from Bihar can be prepared in various ways and offers maximum benefits when consumed in the morning. Choose from sugar-sweetened chilled water, buttermilk with black salt, lemon, and coriander leaves, or water with grated jaggery.

Lassi

A timeless classic, lassi, made from smooth yogurt, comes in various flavors like Kesar, mango, mint, strawberry, banana, or litchi. It contains no harmful ingredients and can be enjoyed in moderation all year round.

Takeaway

To maintain your health and enjoy the monsoon season to the fullest, make it a habit to start your day with a glass of water. This simple routine not only sets a positive tone for the day but also offers numerous benefits for digestion, skin health, and metabolism. Remember, skipping water when it rains outside can harm your body more than you think. So, when was the last time you had a tall glass of water? We're raising a glass to your radiant health this season – care to join us?