Summer is here and it’s time to stay hydrated and healthy to sustain the scorching heat. Most people love sipping on aerated drinks and packed juices for that instant relief in this season, but is it actually for health in the long run? Here are eight homemade desi summer drinks that are refreshing and may aid in fat loss:

Why avoid packaged drinks?
Packaged juices and aerated drinks are loaded with added sugars, preservatives and additives that lead to an instant respite but gradually drain your body by creating electrolyte imbalance.Apart from that, consuming packed juices or cold aerated drinks may lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and an increased risk of chronic diseases like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Moreover, the high levels of caffeine and artificial additives in aerated drinks can lead to dehydration, especially in hot weather, as they act as diuretics, causing the body to lose fluids. Thus, it is best to stick to natural and homemade options to keep the body hydrated and healthy in summers.
Sattu Sharbat
Sattu is a flour made from roasted Bengal gram and is known for its high protein and fiber content. Mix sattu with water, a pinch of black salt, roasted cumin powder, and a squeeze of lemon and chopped coriander leaves.
Aam Panna
Aam Panna is a traditional Indian drink made using raw mangoes. Boil raw mangoes until soft, then blend the pulp with water, mint leaves, roasted cumin powder, black salt, and a bit of jaggery or honey for sweetness. It’s rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that help in keeping the body hydrated.
Chaas (Buttermilk)
Chaas is a popular Indian drink made from curd, blended with water and seasoned with salt, roasted cumin powder, and chopped coriander leaves. Low in calories, high in protein, and aids digestion, this drink is one of the most common summer drinks that also helps in maintaining a good gut health.

Kokum Sherbet
Kokum is a fruit native to the Indian subcontinent and is known for its cooling properties. To make kokum sherbet, soak dried kokum in water for a few hours, then strain the liquid and mix it with water, a pinch of black salt, roasted cumin powder, and a bit of jaggery or honey.
Minty Lemonade
Lemonade infused with mint leaves is a refreshing and low-calorie drink that can aid in digestion and hydration. Squeeze fresh lemon juice into water, add mint leaves, a pinch of black salt, and a bit of honey or stevia for sweetness.

Jaljeera
Jaljeera is a tangy and spicy drink made from cumin, mint, coriander, and other spices. Mix jaljeera powder with water, add some lemon juice, and garnish with mint leaves for a flavorful and refreshing summer beverage.
Barley Water
Barley water is a low-calorie drink made by boiling barley in water and then straining the liquid. It’s rich in fiber and can help keep you feeling full and hydrated throughout the day.
Coconut Water
Fresh coconut water is a naturally refreshing and hydrating drink that is low in calories and high in electrolytes. It can help replenish lost fluids during hot summer days and may aid in weight loss when consumed as part of a balanced diet.