Thandai is a holy drink offered to Lord Shiva during the festivals of Mahashivratri and Holi. It is an age-old summer drink that dates back to its existence in 1000 B.C. As the name suggests, it is a coolant (‘Thandai’ meaning cool in Hindi). It is popularly consumed in the hot summer months especially in the states of Punjab and Uttar Pradesh, but now people enjoy it across India.
ETV Bharat Sukhibhava spoke to Dr. Kruti S. Dhirwani, M.D. (Hom.), M.Sc. (DFSM), is a Consulting Homeopath and Clinical Nutritionist practicing at Sunshine Homeopathy Clinic, Mumbai for some interesting insights on the same.
The ingredients used in preparing Thandai are healthy and nutritious making this a power-packed
It contains:
- Almonds – Rich in Vitamin E and healthy fats, almonds are a rich source of antioxidants.
- Cashew nuts - Rich in protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants, cashews provide instant energy. They are also a rich source of copper, magnesium, and manganese.
- Black peppercorn – They are considered the ‘King of Spices’. Apart from its flavor-enhancing properties, black pepper has a range of health benefits to offer. Piperine, the main component, acts as an antioxidant, boosts immunity, and improves intestinal health. Apart from Piperine, it is also loaded with many minerals like manganese, zinc, calcium, iron, and vitamin A.
- Raisins – these tiny things are rich in fiber, energy, vitamins, and minerals. They improve iron levels, keep bones strong and help digestion.
- Poppy seeds – Nutty and pleasant in taste, poppy seeds are an abundant source of fiber, iron, magnesium, and calcium. They help maintain bone and muscle health and regulate brain activity. Due to the presence of linoleic acid (omega-6 fatty acid), it protects the body from heart disorders.
- Fennel seeds – These aromatic seeds possess oils that have anti-inflammatory properties which relieve flatulence. It is also known for its antioxidant and cooling properties. It aids digestion and reduces bloating keeping the stomach healthy and happy.
- Cardamom – It is rich in minerals like potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. From easing digestion problems, detoxification, and anti-depressant, its health benefits are manifold.
- Pumpkin seeds – These are ‘Powerhouse of Nutrition. They are packed with healthful oils, fiber, and protein. They are excellent immunity boosters, are cardio-protective, and serve as powerful antioxidants.
- Saffron – Referred as ‘Red gold’, the active components in saffron have many therapeutic applications in traditional medicine as an anti-depressant, antiseptic, antioxidant, and digestive.
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All these ingredients are mixed in the milk that is sweetened with sugar or jaggery powder and served chilled. Milk is a complete food in itself and cold milk acts as an antacid and has a cooling effect on the body.
Packed with natural ingredients having this drink on a hot day aids in cooling, detoxifying, allays gastric troubles, and acts as an energy booster. There are many variants and flavors available to this traditional drink. Adding grounded bhaang paste is commonly done to bring about intoxicated effects during the festival of Holi.
Too much Thandai can be harmful
1 glass (~250 ml) of Thandai gives you approximately 340 kcals, 11 gms protein, and 18.3 gms fat.
This provides almost 17% of our total daily calorie requirement for a standard adult diet of 2000 kcals. Hence, it is advisable to not consume more than 1 serving.
The main components being milk and sugar makes this drink high in calories and hence people suffering from diabetes, hypertension, heart problems, and renal disorders must consume it after consulting their physician and nutritionist. Also, people with any sort of nut allergy should avoid this drink as it is rich in almonds and cashew nuts.
For your queries, contact -namaste@drkrutidhirwani.com
