Delhi records 44°C temperature: Ministry of Ayush recommends 12 foods and drinks for protection against heat-related illnesses

The national capital experienced the highest maximum temperature of the season on Monday, with several areas recording temperatures above 44°C. And according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast extreme heat is to continue, issuing a yellow alert for heatwave conditions in Delhi over the next four days. Keeping the heatwaves and rising temperature in view, the Ayush Vertical under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, in coordination with the Ministry of Ayush, recently issued a comprehensive Public Health Advisory on Extreme Heat/Heatwave for the current summer season, states a PIB release. According to the advisory, people should emphasize adequate hydration, avoid direct exposure to sunlight during peak hours, use light cotton clothing, and consume seasonal fruits and fluids rich in electrolytes. As part of the addendum issued by the Ayush Vertical, the Ayurveds section has recommended 12 foods and drinks to be added to the daily diet to help regulate body temperature during extreme heat. Take a look.

It is one of the best natural drinks to consume during a heatwave. It is light, cooling, hydrating, and packed with nutrients that help the body stay refreshed in extremely hot weather. Also known as chaas, it prevents dehydration and contains water, electrolytes, calcium, and potassium, which help restore hydration and maintain the body’s fluid balance.

It is also one of the best natural drinks to consume during a heatwave. It is refreshing, hydrating, and packed with essential electrolytes. It is said to restore lost fluids and electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, magnesium, and calcium, and it supports muscle and nerve function.

Drinks like lemonade, nimbu pani, lemon water, and lemon mint coolers help the body stay hydrated, energized, and refreshed. They are also said to help replenish fluids and maintain the body’s water balance, especially when mixed with salt or natural sweeteners.

It is a traditional Ayurvedic summer beverage made mainly with lemon, water, natural sweeteners, and cooling spices like fennel, cardamom and cumin. In Ayurveda, it is said that lemon and water together help refresh the body and prevent tiredness caused by excessive heat and other ingredients like jaggery, rock salt, black pepper, cardamom, or cumin improve both flavor and digestion.

It is also a traditional Ayurvedic summer beverage prepared mainly from raw mango, water, and cooling spices. It is very similar to Aam Panna, and it is said that raw mango contains important nutrients and electrolytes that help maintain the body’s fluid balance. The use of spices helps replace salts and minerals lost through sweating and may reduce weakness caused by extreme heat.

This traditional Ayurvedic drink is made with tamarind, water, natural sweeteners, and mild spices. It is said that tamarind pulp mixed with water creates a refreshing beverage that may help reduce body heat and provide instant freshness during hot afternoons.

It is one of the most hydrating summer foods, made up of nearly 95% water, and it helps replenish fluids naturally and supports the body’s hydration balance. It is rich in fiber, which elp support healthy digestion and reduce problems like bloating, acidity, and constipation that can become more common in summer.

It is also a refreshing summer fruit, known for its 90-92 percent water content. It provides instant freshness and helps reduce body heat. Also, it is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene which boost immunity, support heart health, and protect the body from stress caused by excessive heat and sun exposure. It is said that natural sugars and water in watermelon help boost energy levels and reduce tiredness caused by heat and dehydration. Also, it is low in calories and fat-free, making it a healthy snack option for people trying to maintain weight. Antioxidants like lycopene and beta-carotene help protect the body from free radical damage and support overall wellness.

This is one of the most underrated summer ingredients. Commonly used in drinks like nimbu pani, lime water, and summer coolers, it provides instant freshness and helps the body cope with high temperatures. It also helps reduce internal heat and provides a refreshing feeling almost instantly.

It is also known as cantaloupe or kharbuja, and is one of the best fruits to consume during summer and heatwaves. It contains around 90% water which aids hydration and is also a rich source of vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.

It is highly valued as a summer vegetable and is known for its ability to reduce body heat. It has a natural cooling effect on the system, helping to calm internal heat and provide relief from hot weather conditions. It has rich water and fiber content which benefits digestion and overall gut health.

They are rich in water, vitamins, and antioxidants that help the body stay cool, hydrated, and healthy in hot weather. Also, they are said to be rich in vitamin C, potassium, and other nutrients that support immunity, maintain electrolyte balance, and help the body function properly in high temperatures.