Tag: hydration

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Gond Katira – The Natural Summer Superfood You Shouldn’t Ignore

As the summer sun blazes down, our bodies look for relief and nature hands us a powerful solution: Gond Katira, also known as Tragacanth Gum. Used for centuries in traditional wellness practices, in recent times this miracle ingredient is gaining renewed attention for its incredible healing properties. It is believed to have cooling properties, which can help regulate body temperature during hot weather.

What is Gond Katira?

Gond Katira is a natural resin derived from the sap of the Astragalus plant. When soaked in water, it transforms into a translucent, jelly-like substance that’s perfect for summer drinks, desserts, or even therapeutic tonics. Its neutral taste and easy integration make it one of the simplest superfoods to adopt into your daily routine.

Why You Should Add It to Your Summer Diet

Natural Body Coolant: Gond Katira helps regulate body temperature and shields you from heatstroke and dehydration. Ideal for extreme summer climates.

Digestive Health Support: It’s a great source of natural prebiotic fiber, aiding smooth digestion, reducing acidity, and relieving constipation.

Aids in Weight Management: Due to its high fiber content, Gond Katira helps you feel fuller for longer, reducing unnecessary snacking and aiding weight control.

Nourishes Skin and Joints: Its natural gel consistency helps in maintaining skin hydration and supporting joint flexibility—especially during high heat when dehydration is common.

Anti-inflammatory Benefits: Known to reduce internal heat and inflammation, making it ideal for those who experience frequent body heat or skin rashes in summer.

How to Consume Gond Katira?

Gond Katira is now easily available in grocery stores. Soak 1 teaspoon of Gond Katira overnight in a glass of water. By morning it will swell up and become jelly like, drain the excess water and mix it into lemonade, sharbats, yogurt based desserts, smoothie , puddings or just with coconut water for hydrating.

In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, Gond Katira offers a simple, powerful way to balance your body’s heat and support your overall health naturally. It’s easy to use, affordable, and backed by aayurveda. If you are pregnant, lactating, or have any underlying health conditions, consult with a healthcare professional before consuming Gond Katira.

We’d love to hear how you enjoy it! share your experience in the comments below. Your tips might inspire someone else to start their gond katira journey too! 😊🖤

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No-Cook Recipes for Hot Summer Days: Refreshing and Easy Ideas

Indian summers can be brutal, with high temperatures and humidity draining all your energy. On such days, the last thing you want is to stand in a hot kitchen. That’s where no-cook recipes come to the rescue. These are not only quick and easy to prepare but also light, cooling, and packed with nutrition.

Here’s a list of refreshing no-cook Indian recipes perfect for beating the heat:

Dahi Poha (Curd Poha)

Flattened rice (poha) is soaked for a couple of minutes, drained, and mixed with curd, grated cucumber and carrot, chopped green chillies, and black salt. A simple tadka of mustard seeds, curry leaves, urad dal, and hing elevates this dish. It’s cooling, probiotic-rich, and filling—perfect for breakfast or a light meal.

Chilled Cucumber Raita

Grated cucumber mixed with chilled curd, a pinch of roasted cumin powder, black salt, and fresh coriander. Serve as a side or have it on its own—it hydrates and cools you from the inside out.

Sprouted Moong Salad

Packed with protein and fiber, sprouted moong mixed with chopped onions, tomatoes, cucumber, coriander, lemon juice, and a dash of chaat masala makes for a light and refreshing salad.

Cold Fruit Chaat

Seasonal fruits like watermelon, mangoes, papaya, apples, and bananas are diced and mixed with a hint of chaat masala and black salt. Chill before serving for that perfect summer snack.

Curd Rice (with a twist)

Instead of traditional cooking, use pre-cooked or leftover rice. Mix it with chilled curd, salt, and a simple tadka. Add grated carrots, pomegranate seeds, or even chopped raw mango for extra flavor.

Cold Oats Bowl

Soak rolled oats in milk or curd overnight. In the morning, add honey, chopped fruits, nuts, and seeds. It’s nutritious, energizing, and doesn’t need any cooking.

Raw Mango Chutney Wrap

Spread homemade raw mango chutney over a roti or wrap, layer with sliced veggies like cucumber and onion, and roll it up. A tangy, spicy, no-cook meal ready in minutes.

Chaas (Spiced Buttermilk)

Blend curd with chilled water, add black salt, roasted cumin powder, grated ginger, and chopped mint or coriander. This digestive drink is a staple for Indian summers.

Aam Panna Shots

Use pre-made or store-bought aam panna syrup. Just mix with chilled water and a touch of black salt. Serve in shot glasses for a fun, refreshing treat.

These no-cook recipes are perfect for anyone looking to stay cool without spending too much time in the kitchen. They’re quick, healthy, and most importantly, they help you beat the heat. Keep your ingredients fresh, chill your bowls and drinks, and enjoy the simplicity of no-fuss summer meals.

Stay cool and eat well this summer!

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Gut Healing Magic of Fermented Desi Drink Kanji

MM_Kaali Gajar Kanji

A healthy gut is the foundation of overall well-being. In the world of health and wellness, the focus on gut health has taken center stage, and for good reason. While kombucha and kefir often steal the spotlight, India has its own traditional gut-healing elixir – Kanji. Kanji is a fermented north Indian beverage considered to be great for the stomach and is a must-have in winters as it not only soothes our system from all the binge eating we do in this season but also heats our body.

Why is Gut Health Important?
The gut, often referred to as the “second brain,” plays a crucial role in nutrient absorption, metabolism, and immunity. Poor gut health can lead to bloating, indigestion, and more severe issues like leaky gut syndrome or autoimmune conditions. Fermented foods and drinks like kaanji introduce beneficial bacteria into the digestive system, helping to balance the gut microbiome and promote better digestion.

What is Kanji?
Kanji is a traditional North Indian fermented drink made primarily from black carrots, mustard seeds, and water, with a blend of spices that give it a tangy, pungent flavor. Often consumed during the winter and spring months, this vibrant, probiotic-rich drink is not only delicious but also incredibly beneficial for gut health. Also known as Khatairn in the Sindhi language.

Health Benefits of Kaanji:

  1. Rich in Probiotics:
    The fermentation process of kanji creates natural probiotics, which help replenish good bacteria in the gut. This improves digestion and helps in the absorption of essential nutrients.
  2. Boosts Immunity:
    A healthy gut contributes to a robust immune system. By consuming kaanji regularly, you are arming your body with the necessary defenses to fight off common illnesses.
  3. Detoxifies the Body:
    Kanji acts as a natural detoxifier. Its antioxidant properties help flush out toxins from the body, promoting clearer skin and better organ function.
  4. Aids Digestion and Reduces Bloating:
    The natural enzymes in kanji support digestion, prevent constipation, and reduce bloating. It also helps in balancing stomach acid, which can alleviate acid reflux.
  5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
    The mustard seeds and spices used in kanji have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation in the gut and the body.

How to Make Kaanji at Home:
Making kanji is simple, and the best part is you can customize it to your liking. Here’s a quick recipe:

Ingredients:
• 4-5 black carrots (or regular carrots if unavailable)
• 1-2 beets (optional for extra color)
• 1 tbsp mustard seeds (coarsely ground)
• 1 tbsp black salt
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 5 cups of water

Method:

  1. Wash and peel the carrots and beets. Cut them into long sticks.
  2. In a large glass jar, add the carrots, beets, mustard seeds, black salt, and chili powder.
  3. Pour in the water and stir well.
  4. Cover the jar with a muslin cloth and let it ferment for 4-5 days in sunlight. Stir daily.
  5. Once fermented, strain the drink and refrigerate. Enjoy chilled!

And if you don’t want go through the hassle of making kanji at home try this Kaali Gajar Kanji – 100% Natural and Homemade from Masala Monk

Kanji is more than just a refreshing drink; it’s a time-honored tradition that nurtures our gut and overall health. As we embrace global trends of kombucha and fermented teas, let’s not forget the power of our own desi drinks. By incorporating kanji into your diet, you’re not just drinking for taste – you’re drinking for health.

Raise a glass to good health with kanji – your gut will thank you!

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Top 12 Hangover Remedies from Around the World

Hangovers are the universal consequence of a night well spent. Every culture has its own tried-and-true methods to combat that dreaded morning-after feeling. From hearty breakfasts to unusual brews, let’s take a tour around the world and explore some of the most unique and effective hangover cures. A big shout-out to David McCandless and Information is Beautiful for the enlightening infographic that inspired this guide.

Traditional Remedy (Various Cultures)

Ingredients: Egg yolk, Lemon juice, Worcester sauce, Pepper

Description: The traditional hangover cure, popular in many cultures, is a protein-packed punch in a glass. The egg yolk provides essential nutrients, while lemon juice and Worcester sauce add a zesty, savory kick. A sprinkle of pepper finishes it off, giving your system a wake-up call. This remedy is believed to soothe the stomach and replenish lost nutrients, making it a time-honored classic.

American Remedy

Ingredients: Egg yolk, Worcester sauce

Description: In the land of burgers and fries, the American hangover cure sticks to simplicity and effectiveness. Egg yolk mixed with a generous splash of Worcester sauce delivers a swift nutrient boost to tackle the hangover head-on. This straightforward approach ensures you get the benefits without any fuss, making it a quick fix for the morning after.

Dutch Remedy

Ingredients: Beer

Description: The Dutch, known for their practicality, believe in the “hair of the dog” method. A cold beer to nurse your hangover might seem counterintuitive, but it’s a beloved tradition that’s said to ease the pain by providing a gentle reintroduction of alcohol into your system. This method can help you feel better temporarily, but it’s important to follow up with proper hydration.

Germanic Remedy

Ingredients: Pickled herring, Mustard berries, Juniper berries

Description: Germany and its neighbors offer a remedy that’s not for the faint of heart. This briny mix of pickled herring, mustard berries, and juniper berries is thought to replenish electrolytes and aid digestion. Plus, the unique combination is sure to distract you from your pounding headache! This remedy capitalizes on the sharp flavors and high nutrient content to kickstart your recovery.

Romanian Remedy

Ingredients: Cow’s stomach, Root vegetable soup, Cream, Vinegar

Description: Romanians go all out with a hearty, unconventional soup. Made from cow’s stomach, root vegetables, cream, and a dash of vinegar, this robust dish is believed to settle the stomach and restore energy levels. If nothing else, it’s an adventure in a bowl! The richness and unique ingredients make it a memorable and effective solution.

Chinese Remedy

Ingredients: Strong green tea

Description: In China, the answer to a hangover is as simple as it is effective. Strong green tea, packed with antioxidants, helps detoxify the body and clear the mind. It’s a gentle yet powerful way to start the recovery process. The tea’s natural compounds work to cleanse the liver and improve overall hydration.

Polish Remedy

Ingredients: Sour pickle juice

Description: Poles have a penchant for pickles, and their sour, tangy brine is a classic hangover cure. Rich in electrolytes, pickle juice helps rehydrate and balance the body’s chemistry, while the tartness gives your taste buds a jolt. This straightforward and accessible remedy is a staple in Polish households.

Hedonistic Remedy (Varied Origins)

Ingredients: Ginger ale, Lime juice, Brandy, Gin

Description: For those who lean towards indulgence, this concoction is a luxurious blend of ginger ale, lime juice, brandy, and gin. It’s not just a drink; it’s an experience. The combination of flavors aims to soothe the stomach and elevate the spirits. This fancy mix can make your recovery feel like a treat rather than a chore.

Icelandic Remedy

Ingredients: Water, Honey, Cider vinegar

Description: Icelanders prefer a natural remedy. Mixing water with honey and cider vinegar creates a drink that hydrates and energizes. Honey provides a gentle sweetness and energy boost, while cider vinegar helps with detoxification. This simple yet effective combination leverages natural ingredients to cleanse and rejuvenate the body.

Italian Remedy

Ingredients: Coffee

Description: Italians keep it classic with a strong cup of coffee. Known for their impeccable coffee culture, it’s no surprise they rely on a robust espresso to clear the fog and rejuvenate the senses. The caffeine kick helps to wake up the mind and body, providing a much-needed boost.

French Remedy

Ingredients: Strong coffee

Description: Similarly, the French trust in the power of a potent brew. A cup of strong, dark coffee helps to kick-start the day, chase away fatigue, and bring clarity after a night of indulgence. This traditional remedy is both comforting and invigorating.

British Remedy

Ingredients: Baked beans, Egg, Bacon, Sausage

Description: The British answer to a hangover is a full English breakfast. This hearty plate, loaded with baked beans, eggs, bacon, and sausage, provides a balanced mix of protein and fats to absorb alcohol and provide sustained energy. This substantial meal is designed to fill you up and help you recover.

Medical Remedy

Ingredients: Water, Diarrhoea medicine

Description: For a no-nonsense approach, the medical remedy focuses on hydration and stomach relief. Drinking plenty of water and taking diarrhea medicine helps address dehydration and gastrointestinal discomfort directly. This straightforward method aims to rehydrate and stabilize the body.

Conclusion

Whether you’re facing a mild headache or the full wrath of last night’s choices, there’s a hangover cure for every taste and tolerance level. From the simple elegance of green tea to the robust indulgence of a full English breakfast, these remedies highlight the diversity and creativity of cultures around the world in tackling the universal hangover.

Credit: Infographic by David McCandless from Information is Beautiful.

FAQs about Hangover Cures

  1. What causes a hangover?
    • A hangover is caused by several factors including dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, low blood sugar, and the presence of toxic byproducts from alcohol metabolism.
  2. How does coffee help with a hangover?
    • Coffee can help alleviate headache and fatigue due to its caffeine content, which is a stimulant. However, it can also dehydrate you further, so it should be consumed with plenty of water.
  3. Is pickle juice really effective for hangovers?
    • Yes, pickle juice is rich in electrolytes and sodium, which help replenish the body’s lost nutrients and alleviate symptoms like headache and nausea.
  4. Why is green tea recommended as a hangover cure?
    • Green tea is packed with antioxidants that help detoxify the body and reduce inflammation. It also provides a gentle caffeine boost without the jitters associated with coffee.
  5. Can a hearty breakfast cure a hangover?
    • A hearty breakfast, particularly one rich in proteins and fats, can help stabilize blood sugar levels and provide essential nutrients to kickstart your recovery.
  6. What are isotonic drinks and how do they help?
    • Isotonic drinks are beverages that contain similar concentrations of salts and sugars as in the human body. They help rehydrate and replenish lost electrolytes quickly.
  7. Is the ‘hair of the dog’ method effective?
    • Drinking more alcohol (hair of the dog) can provide temporary relief but it generally prolongs the recovery process and can lead to worse symptoms later.
  8. Are there any natural remedies for hangovers?
    • Yes, natural remedies include drinking water, consuming ginger tea to reduce nausea, and eating foods rich in vitamins and minerals such as bananas and spinach.
  9. Can exercising help with a hangover?
    • Light exercise can help boost endorphin levels and improve mood. However, strenuous exercise should be avoided as it can further dehydrate you.
  10. Is it necessary to take medication for a hangover?
    • While over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help with headaches, it’s important to stay hydrated and avoid medications that can irritate the stomach.

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hangover cures, hangover remedies, natural hangover cures, traditional hangover remedies, hydration, coffee for hangovers, green tea, isotonic drinks, hearty breakfast, pickle juice, alcohol recovery, detox, health tips

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Is Ice-Cream Helping You Beat the Summer Heat?

Yes, summers are here, and the scorching heat is unbearable. Our natural instinct is to grab something cold and what better way to beat the heat than an ice-cream. It’s cool, creamy, delicious and triggers dopamine rush. It gives a cooling sensation on the tongue; the flavour and overall sweetness contributes to the positive experience of enjoying this treat. It is hard to pass that feeling of instant pleasure. But before you grab that ice-cream, know the science behind what an ice-cream does to your body heat, so that next time when you require something to cool yourself, you’ll make a better choice.

How our body heat works?

To understand what ice-cream does to our body, we first need to know a bit about how our body controls temperature in different environments. The process of maintaining optimal body temperature by our body is called thermoregulation. Humans are warm blooded which means we can control our body temperature. Our body can constantly produce heat as a byproduct of internal chemical processes which is done by our metabolism. Our metabolism is responsible for correct functioning of our body. From breaking down food to absorbing nutrients to transporting them to different cells and then converting it into energy, metabolism makes it all possible. The heat this process generates is useful when outside temperature is cold but in summers, we need to avoid overheating.

How will Ice-Cream work once it gets digested?

It may seem logical to have something cold like an ice-cream in summers to cool yourself, however, once the components of the ice cream start to break down, the cooling effect is diminished. Its initial cooling effect is rapidly replaced by heat which is generated when the digestion process of ice cream starts. When the body needs to digest calorie rich foods, it produces a lot of heat to digest it which leads to increase in body temperature. Milk, sugar and all the cream added in an ice-cream are rich in calories. This will generate more heat in the body when outside temperature is already high. So, instead of having a cooling effect, it will have the opposite effect. The same goes for high calorie soft drinks- aerated drinks, packed juices. All of this will provide only a momentary respite from the heat but will not cool your body in the truest sense.

What can you actually do to keep your body cool in summers?

While it’s is ok to enjoy an ice-cream once in a while but as the mercury rises opt for a more balanced approach to beat the heat. Some of the best summer coolers are: 

Apart from this, warm beverages surprisingly are a good way to keep yourself cool. Drinking hot beverages cause your body to sweat which allows your body to cool down. Sweating is the most effective natural way for our body to lose heat. 

Eating spicy foods such as ginger, cayenne pepper and red chili peppers can cause you to perspire. When you eat spicy food, you might initially feel hot, but it triggers sweat response causing you to perspire and when the perspiration evaporates, it cools your body temperature. 

Lastly and most importantly, keep yourself hydrated. Drinking enough water is essential to maintain overall well-being and is one of the best ways to keep yourself cool.

Ayurvedic Perspective: 

According to Ayurveda, ice-cream has dampening qualities. It is cold, heavy, too sweet and lacks fire element. Fire or Agni in Ayurveda is referred to as digestive fire- energy that we all need for smooth digestion. Now imagine, pouring something cold and heavy on a blazing fire. Yes, exactly! The fire will diminish. Having too much of cold, sweet and heavy foods creates an imbalance in our body triggering conditions like excess mucus, lethargy, weight gain, allergies, indigestion, bloating and constipation. 

But if you really have a strong urge to grab that ice-cream cup, Ayurveda has some ways in which you can make this food little friendly for your body.

  • Consume your ice-cream around noon time, from 12:00 to 2:00 pm. This is the time when digestive fire is at its strongest. You will have plenty of time throughout the day to digest it. 
  • Go for ice-cream that has a bit of spice like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger or even cayenne pepper. This gives your body some digestive support. 
  • Cardamom flavoured icecream is considered to be one of best antidotes to icecream. When cardamom is added to dairy products, it aids digestion and helps to reduce excess mucus production caused by dairy. 

Bottomline

Cold treats can be satisfying when the temperature is soaring however, it does have an opposite effect on your body. Instead of cooling your body, it will generate more heat. You can enjoy cold summer treats but remember moderation and maintaining a balance is the key to good health. Fix on better and natural summer coolants and remember to stay hydrated.

I hope this post helped you and next time when you get the craving, do remember this post. It will help you make informed choices. Stay happy and stay healthy! 🙂