6 drinks that’ll keep you healthy and hydrated this festive season

The festive season is a time to enjoy treats, but it may also be a strain on our hydration and health if we are not mindful. The hustle and bustle of gatherings, rich foods, and the odd late night are all things that can be draining, so staying hydrated and nourished is key to feeling energized. Here are 6 drinks that will keep you healthy and hydrated during this festive season while allowing you to enjoy the celebrations to the fullest. (Images courtesy: Canva)

Coconut water is a natural, low-calorie hydrator that is filled with essential electrolytes, such as potassium, magnesium, and sodium, which can maintain fluid balance and avoid dehydration. A splash of lime and some fresh sprigs of mint not only give flavour but also add a refreshing twist that also aids in digestion. Mint comes with natural cooling and soothing properties, and lime brings a boost of vitamin C for immunity. This is a perfect drink for a quick shot of hydration, especially when you are on the move between events.

Lemon ginger water is an easy yet effective drink to support digestion and hydration. Lemon contains vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps boost the immune system during the festive season to avert colds. On the other hand, Ginger is known to reduce swelling due to its anti-inflammatory characteristics. To prepare this infused drink, put some sliced fresh lemons and fresh ginger in a jug containing water and let it brew for a few hours. This detox water will not only keep you fresh during the day but also tempt you to drink more to taste its natural flavours that have been infused into your water.

Hydrating and anti-inflammatory aloe vera juice give your festive hydration routine. Aloe vera contains vital vitamins and minerals, as well as amino acids essential for soothing the stomach for easier digestion. Add honey and enjoy the natural sweetener that gives an instant boost of energy and will not cause a sugar high. Honey is antimicrobial and can help fight the infections that come your way with the festive season. The only thing is, use the aloe vera juice sparingly, as excess causes it to act as a laxative.

A refreshing spiced buttermilk or chaas is one traditional Indian drink. The preparation of buttermilk by diluting yoghurt with water gives a healthy dose of probiotics that maintain the gut health—a must while indulging in rich festival foods. The addition of cumin, black salt, and fresh coriander adds flavour and helps to digest, thereby preventing bloating and discomfort after the big meal. Buttermilk is also good in calcium and other useful nutrients; it is one of those light, hydrating beverages that leaves the drinker feeling refreshed without the weight of calories.

Green tea is a lightly flavoured, antioxidant-rich beverage to keep you hydrated and has a mild energy boost sans the jitters associated with coffee. The antioxidants within green tea, particularly catechins, fight back against the oxidative stress the late nights and heavy meal cause. Adding fresh mint gives a burst of freshness and soothes the stomach. A squeeze of lemon adds flavour and vitamin C, making this the ultimate immune-boosting festive drink. Sipping green tea throughout the day will keep the appetite under control as well as reduce sugar cravings.

Pomegranate juice is a colourfully rich drink full of antioxidants like polyphenols, which reduce inflammation and help healthy hearts. The juice has naturally sweet flavours, making it enjoyable and sugar-free, as well as it perfectly blurs with a hint of fresh basil for an extra flavour layer. Basil leaves add a light herbaceous flavor and possess adaptogens that might help ease stress, and keep you cool and calm amidst the festive rush. Pomegranate juice is also blood pressure-lowering, so this will keep you calm and balanced in the festive rush.