Homemade energy drinks are a superior choice compared to store-bought options. They contain natural ingredients, no preservatives, and no added sugars. Commercial energy drinks often have high sugar content and artificial additives that can lead to health issues. In contrast, homemade versions are fresh, nutritious, and tailored to personal taste preferences. Making energy drinks at home ensures the intake of natural vitamins and minerals, offering a healthier and more effective energy boost.
Choosing energy drinks with no added sugar is particularly beneficial. They prevent the sugar spikes and crashes associated with commercial drinks, maintaining steady energy levels. Natural sugars in fruits and other nutrients provide balanced energy. The antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals in these prepared drinks support biological activity and a healthy lifestyle.
From Phalsa Sherbet to Sol Kodhi, here are a number of Indian energy drinks you can try at home without adding refined sugar.
Energy Drinks with No Added Sugar
1. Phalsa Sherbet
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Phalsa sherbet is a traditional summer drink made from phalsa berries, filled with antioxidants and vitamins. To make this sherbet, blend phalsa berries with water and a bit of lemon juice. This sweet and tangy drink is naturally an ideal energy booster for hot summer days.
2. Aam Pora Shorbot
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Be it heat rashes or dyspepsia, this classic drink is the answer. Raw mango is essential to Bengali aam pora shorbot. This summer drink uses uncooked, roasted green mangoes. Traditionally, raw mangoes are roasted over coal. Gas-roasting works too. A flavourful blend of sour, sweet, and smoked green mangoes, jaggery, salt, chaat masala, jeera, and black pepper. For a stronger flavour, use fresh green chillies instead of black pepper.
3. Sattu Drink
Sattu drink is a traditional Indian beverage made from roasted Bengal gram or barley. Mix sattu powder with water and a pinch of salt. This drink is highly hydrating and energising. You can also add a bit of lime juice for added flavour. Sattu is known for its cooling properties and is perfect for hot summer days.
4. Mango Lassi
Mango lassi is a popular Indian drink made with yoghurt and ripe mangoes. Blend mango pulp with yoghurt, add a touch of rose or kewra essence, and some nuts. This lassi is not only delicious but also helps in keeping the stomach cool during hot weather. This drink is cooling and refreshing, perfect for summer.
5. Sol Kadhi
Sol Kadhi, a signature dish of Konkani cuisine, is prepared with kokum and coconut milk. Maharashtra and Goa, two western Indian states, are particularly fond of it. The inclusion of kokum gives sol kadhi its beautiful pinkish hue. Drinking it is thought to ease indigestion and calm the nerves. There are some more health advantages to it as well.
6. Kanji
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Carrots, mustard, and salt are the typical ingredients in Kanji, a water-based drink from North India. Some of the improvised recipes also include beetroots. Nevertheless, this fermented beverage might assist you in maintaining your health throughout the year due to its abundance of nutrients. Since it contains probiotics, it is also an excellent aid to digestion and works as a natural coolant.
7. Kambu Koozh
The drink, made from locally sourced millets in Tamil Nadu, is both popular and adaptable. Whether you're at home or on the go, with or without fermentation, using one millet variety or a combination, this drink is perfect for everyone from toddlers to grandmas. Koozh is typically made from finger millet, but pearl millet, or bajra/kambu, is just as popular.
Homemade Indian energy drinks with no added sugar are a healthier alternative to commercial options. They are easy to prepare, nutritious, and free from artificial additives. These drinks provide natural energy, hydration, and essential nutrients, making them an excellent choice for everyday consumption. Enjoy these delicious homemade drinks to stay refreshed and energised throughout the day.