With global warming on the rise, summers are becoming unbearable. The heat is rising beyond control. The comfort of our air-conditioned houses and office may give us relief from the wrath of the sun but we are not spared from the dehydration woes! In places where the climate is dry and arid, dehydration is a major concern. People develop severe health complications and end-up bed ridden in hospitals.

In such climatic conditions, it is not enough to hydrate the body with just plain water. We do resort to fruit juices and milk shakes, which are definitely helpful. However, most of us have our fruit juices with additional sugar. Also, milkshakes are mostly prepared using synthetic flavoring agents, which in excess is harmful. Also, excessive consumption of milk causes indigestion problems, as the human body is not designed to digest large quantities of milk.

There are a few drinks which are prepared to keep the body safe from dehydration. These drinks are healthy and simple to make as well.

Ginger and Jaggery Drink
You require:

• 1 cup of shredded jaggery (in case jaggery is not available, you can use dark brown sugar)
• Dry ginger powder – 1 teaspoon
• Powdered cardamom – ½ teaspoon
• Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon
• Water – 3-4 cups

Method:
Mix all the ingredients in water. Strain to remove any particles. Chill the juice for an hour. Your “heat-savior” drink is ready!

Jaggery is the best preferred alternative to white sugar. It is rich in iron. It also helps in blood purification. Lemon, ginger and cardamom flavor the drink with three different tastes that perfectly compliment the sweetness of the jaggery. They also help in reducing the body heat.

Raw Mango Drink
You require:

• Raw mango pieces – 2 cups
• Cumin (roasted and finely powdered) – 1 tablespoon
• Sugar – 1 cup
• Cardamom powder – 1 teaspoon
• Nutmeg – a tiny piece
• Salt – 1 teaspoon

Method:
Boil the mango pieces along with nutmeg and sugar, till the mango gets soft. Cool, blend to a pulp and sieve. Add cumin powder and salt and bring it to a boil. This pulp is a concentrate. In order to make the drink, mix 2 tablespoons of the pulp to a glass of chilled water. The pulp may be stored in a freezer for about 2 months.

This drink provides much relief from dehydration and also prevents heat rashes on the skin.