These Six Coolers Will Help You Beat The Heat

RoohAfza

Much before many imported (and more exotic-sounding) brands of instant drinks took over the market, this delicious energizer was the one drink people (young and old) would enjoy on a hot day. Whether added to a glass of cold milk or mixed with water with a dash of lemon juice and a few sprigs of mint or poured on top of an ice cream to make a super-decadent sundae, RoohAfza is not only a thirst quencher but also this versatile fruity syrup. All through the years this sharbat has retained its original flavour and continues to be a favourite with people of all ages.

Aam Panna

Made with raw green mangoes, aam panna is delicious as well as nutritious. Other than help fight dehydration, this sweet and tangy drink is packed with vitamins B1, B2 and C and essential minerals such as potassium, magnesium and calcium. If making it from scratch seems like a chore, you can stock ready-to-drink bottles or use an instant aam panna mix to make a quick refreshing drink any time of the day.

Thandai

While you may associate thandai with Holi parties, this wonderful drink is a super-nutritious cooler perfect for a hot day. Literally meaning cold, thandai is prepared using a mixture of almonds, pepper, rose petals, cardamom, vetiver seeds, saffron, milk, fennel seeds, and sugar. “It cools from inside and serves as an instant energizer ... It’s a medley of ingredients that are great on their own, but together they deliver a potent health kick,” says nutritionist, weight management consultant and health writer Kavita Devgan in a DailyO article.

Coconut Water

High in water content and packed with vitamins and minerals, coconut water should be your drink of choice before you step out in the sun or just after you are back home. It instantly replenishes the fluid lost due to sweating but doesn’t add too many calories, which also makes it an ideal post-workout drink. Coconut water is also great for your skin.

Iced Tea

Many tea enthusiasts prefer switching to the iced version during the hot months. An iced tea is the perfect marriage of tea extracts and the zesty flavour of lemons. Iced tea mixes are made by drying the tea leaves and then powdering them so that you can enjoy the taste of tea with every sip—and you can make a strong or a light cold brew based on your preference.

Cold Coffee

If you don’t want to have your regular cappuccino in the hot, sweaty months, you can switch to cold coffee. Besides making it the traditional way, you can also keep a few packs of cold coffee mix in your kitchen—all you need to do is just add milk and your coffee is ready.