The summer season brings with it challenges like intense heat, sweating, and heatwaves. When temperatures soar beyond 40–45°C, the body begins to lose water and essential minerals. This can lead to issues such as fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and dehydration. To stay cool and hydrated, people often turn to traditional Indian beverages.

Bael (wood apple) sherbet, lemon water, and buttermilk are among the most popular summer drinks. Not only do they cool the body, but they also provide several essential nutrients. However, people often wonder which of the three is most effective at protecting against heatwaves.

In reality, each drink has its own unique benefits, and its effectiveness depends on an individual's needs and physical condition. Let’s explore the benefits, preparation methods, and ideal consumption times for these three drinks.

**Bael Sherbet**

*   It cools the body from within.
*   The Bael fruit is considered naturally cooling.
*   It can help strengthen the digestive system.
*   It is a popular drink for cooling the body during intense heat and heatwaves.

**How ​​to make Bael Sherbet?**

*   Scoop out the pulp of a ripe Bael fruit and mix it with water.
*   Strain the mixture and add jaggery or sugar to taste.

**When to drink Bael Sherbet?**

*   It should be consumed in the morning or afternoon before stepping out into the sun.

**Lemon Water**

*   Lemon water is an easy way to get instant hydration.
*   It helps quickly replenish fluids in the body.
*   It contains Vitamin C, which provides a refreshing feeling.
*   It can help reduce fatigue caused by the heat.

**How ​​to make Lemon Water?**

*   Mix lemon juice, a little salt, and sugar into a glass of water.

**When to drink Lemon Water?**

*   It can be consumed after returning home from outdoors or at any time during the day.

**Buttermilk**

*   Buttermilk is beneficial for electrolytes and digestion. Buttermilk contains calcium and probiotics.
It can help cool the stomach and improve digestion.
It is considered helpful in replenishing electrolytes lost from the body during summer.

How to make buttermilk?

Mix water into yogurt and whisk well.
Then, add roasted cumin and black salt.

When to drink buttermilk?

Buttermilk should be consumed after lunch.

Which is most effective against heatstroke?

If the goal is to keep the body cool for a prolonged period, *Bael* (wood apple) sherbet is considered a good option.

Lemonade is more popular for immediate hydration.

Buttermilk is considered excellent for digestion and electrolyte balance.

Therefore, it is difficult to single out one as the best, as each of the three offers different benefits.

Keep these points in mind when consuming these drinks in summer:

Avoid using excessive sugar.

Consume drinks made from fresh ingredients only.

Do not consume drinks that have been left out for a long time.

It is also important to drink adequate plain water throughout the day.

Consult a doctor immediately if severe symptoms of heatstroke appear.