Sip your way through summer

Make Naini Setalvad’s digestive concoctions your go-to, these sultry months

- Naini Setalvad’s

Oh, how I just love the summers! I thoroughly enjoy this golden-hued season which takes me back to my childhood days. It was the time when my one true love—mango—arrived. I would gobble up bowls of aamras (mango pulp) with hot puris (deep-fried bread). If that wasn’t enough, I and my friends would satisfy our cravings for salt and spice at the local chaat (Indian savouries) vendor. The day would end with a stomach that was full of my favourite foods but slightly queasy. If you too face this issue, do try out my summer digestive coolers that will help maintain your digestive health.

Mint: Refreshing and rejuvenating, a few mint leaves can solve pretty much anything. The active ingredient in mint—menthol—not only is a wellknown mouth freshener but also soothes an upset stomach. This reliever of indigestion is antibacterial and can help fight stomach bugs. Take a bunch of fresh leaves and add them to your water. Sip on it throughout the day and you will breeze through summer.

Fennel: One summer drink that is reminiscent of my childhood is fennel infused water. Soak fennel seeds in water through the night, boil the water, strain it, and devour the concoction. This sweet-tasting drink helps relieve constipation and indigestion. The high potassium can help reduce bloating due to excessive salt consumption.