Patnaites prefer ‘desi’ drinks to beat the heat

Patna: As scorching summer is on, so are the ways to combat it. Though carbonated soft drinks are more popular among youths, many Patnaites are turning to traditional and homemade 'desi' beverages like nimbu paani, sattu, lassi, and aam panna to beat the heat."I choose juices and nimbu paani over carbonated drink. They make me feel more refreshed and energetic, and they're healthier," said Shekhar, a student at IIT Patna. Arunima Pandey, another student, said, "I enjoy homemade milkshakes and nimbu paani, but occasionally have carbonated drink. Still, water is the most important source of hydration and should never be replaced with aerated drinks."Regardless of how the weather gets, work must go on, and staying mindful of what you eat and drink becomes essential. Shweta Kumari, a teacher at a school, said, "I start my day with a glass of cool water, followed by aam panna — it helps control gas and keeps me refreshed throughout the day. I even carry it to work. I also make it a point to eat curd daily to keep my system cool," she said.Having grown up with home remedies, she now prepares nutritious, homemade drinks for her children as well. "Though kids today are more inclined towards packaged beverages, I try to limit their intake and encourage them to enjoy our desi drinks instead."Celebrating summers in the Bihari style, Manish Kumar has made sattu a part of his daily routine for over a decade. "I try to consume natural things to avoid early reliance on medicines. Sattu is a great drink—refreshing and easy to make."A coconut vendor in Ramnagri Market reported a boom in sales during summer, noting that many people prefer nariyal paani for its health benefits. Similarly, a salesman at an Amul parlour observed increased demand for lassis, ice creams, cold coffee, and cold drinks due to the hot and humid weather."Sometimes I crave drinking things outside home, so I come here and get small packets of lassis and buttermilk over soda drinks," said Aarav, a student at a private school in Danapur.Kabir Kalra, a student studying in Bangalore, expressed his appreciation for homemade drinks when he came back home during vacations. "At home, I enjoy nimbu paani, sharbat, cold coffee, and lassi. Mummy usually doesn't buy packaged fruit juice—she prefers making it fresh," he said. "In college, I often rely on local juice shops for lime juice or soda."Dr Sanjay Kumar Pandey from AIIMS Patna said, "Dehydration is a common problem, so it's important to drink enough water and natural liquids. Try to avoid carbonated drinks as they are harmful to health. They often contain preservatives and artificial sweeteners that can cause weight gain and increase the risk of diabetes. They may feel refreshing, but they don't really quench your thirst." He recommends homemade drinks to keep the body cool. Coconut water is also a great option as it helps restore lost minerals.He also advised avoiding the sun during peak hours, wearing light clothes, and taking special care of children and the elderly.