Besides water, our body needs fluids to meet the daily nutritional requirement.
There is a great variety of drinks available in the market with many different flavors. But, the additives and chemicals used in the preparation of the packaged drinks have detrimental effects on our health. Therefore, it is important that we consume drinks/beverages that are completely natural and healthy for our overall growth and nourishment.
Here are 8 nutritious drinks that you can add to your daily routine.
1. Bitter gourd juice/ Karela juice
Although bitter in taste as its name suggests, bitter gourd juice is packed with several essential nutrients. It contains vitamin C which is good for your skin and hair, and the presence of vitamin A makes it a good choice for promoting healthy eyesight and better immunity. It is great for weight loss and also helps in removing toxins from the body.
You can also add ginger, few drops of lemon and a pinch of salt to reduce the bitterness of the juice.
2. Aloe vera juice
Aloe vera juice has anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it a great remedy for skin related conditions like acne. It provides hydration to the body and moisture to the skin. Consuming aloe vera juice has a cooling effect on your stomach and helps in dealing with digestive disorders such as GERD.
Aloe vera juice can be prepared at home by extracting the gel from the aloe vera leaves and blending it with water.
3. Beetroot juice
Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, beetroot promotes healthy skin and boosts immunity. Drinking beet juice may prevent heart-related diseases and lowering blood pressure levels.
While preparing the juice, you may add salt, ginger and few drops of lemon to enhance the taste.
4. Coconut water
The electrolytes present in coconut water makes it a great hydrating drink. Low in calories and carbohydrates, it is a healthier substitute for sports drinks which may contain sugar and additives.
You may also add few drops of lemon and mint to enhance the flavor and its nutritive properties.
5. Neem juice/ Neem water
In Ayurveda, due to its anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties, neem is used as a medicinal herb to treat and ward off many diseases. Consuming neem juice or neem water helps in the reduction of acne, scars and blemishes. It also works as a blood purifier and helps in getting rid of the toxins from the body.
6. Lemonade/ shikanji
This hydrating and refreshing drink, preferred mostly in summer, comes with many health benefits. A good source of vitamin C, it helps in boosting the immunity and also promotes clear and healthy skin. Drinking lemonade may also be helpful in weight loss and improving digestion.
7. Lemon tea
When the weather outside is a bit chilly, you may opt for lemon tea instead of lemonade. Its effects on the body are similar to that of lemonade. However, lemon tea has relatively less sugar, which makes it a healthier option.
8. Chamomile tea
Chamomile tea has a soothing effect on both your mind and body. Drinking chamomile tea post dinner can improve the quality of your sleep. It also helps in lowering the stress levels in your body and reducing anxiety. For women, chamomile tea may also help to relieve period cramps.
If you prefer, you can add few drops of honey as a sweetener.
Stay healthy and hydrated!