Is sugarcane juice safe for health? ICMR warns against use of popular summer drink, shares safe drink options

Is sugarcane juice safe for health? ICMR warns against use of popular summer drink, shares safe drink options

New Delhi: In summer with the rise in temperature, the need for hydration also increases to avoid heat-related health issues. Water is no doubt a miracle drink but if you do not like drinking plain water or the taste of water, then you must try fruit juices for hydration. However, drinking ready-made juices does not serve the purpose and can be harmful to health. Pointing this out, the Revised Dietary Guidelines released by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) after 13 years noted that sugarcane juice, which we all love to consume in summer must be avoided since it is not healthy at all.

The reason they gave behind this is that sugarcane juice contains 13-15 grams of sugar per 100 millilitres.  The data has been consolidated along with the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN).

Sugarcane contains 13-15 grams of sugar per 100ml

Sugarcane itself has high sugar levels and therefore its consumption should be limited. As mentioned it contains about 13 to 15 grams of sugar per 100 millilitres. Sugarcane is high in a type of natural sugar called sucrose. It is largely water with about 15 per cent sucrose and 15 per cent fibre in it.

How much amount of sugarcane you should intake?

As per the medical experts, the advisable sugar intake for an adult should not be over 30 grams, while the kids between the ages of 7 to 10 years should limit their intake to only 24 grams. In conversation with News9, Dr Manjusha Agarwal, Senior Consultant Internal Medicine Gleneagles Hospitals Parel Mumbai said, “The infected ice put in the sugarcane juice has an umpteen number of infections and raises the chances of hepatitis, cholera, enteric fever, and food poisoning. Sugarcane juice is high in sugar and is a strict no-no for diabetics or people who are trying to lose weight. Although sugarcane juice has some nutrients, however, it won’t be suitable for everyone.”

“So, proper hygiene needs to be followed by making the sugarcane juice as house flies pound on the sugarcane juice and the infected ice can cause gastrointestinal infections, jaundice, and cholera,” added Dr Agarwal.

Apart from sugarcane, the ICMR has asked to avoid other drinks, including sugary soft drinks, chai, coffee and other caffeinated beverages, energy drinks, packaged fruit juices and alcoholic drinks.

Here are 5 drinks that you can safely consume:

Coconut water:  Coconut water is an excellent source of natural hydrator that is rich in crucial electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and magnesium. It helps in regaining the lost fluids and electrolytes from the body.

Buttermilk: Buttermilk is also called ‘chaas’ which is an Indian drink, famously known for helping in digestion and also keeping the body cool in summer. It is rich in vitamins and minerals such as calcium and potassium.

Lemon water: Lemon water or the nimbu pani is very refreshing in the summer season and is also packed with vitamin C hence it helps boost the immune system.

Water: Water is the best source of hydration be it any season. It regulates the body temperature, helps in digestion and also maintains the body functions.

Whole fruit juices: Whole fruit juices without added sugar are an excellent option for hydration during the summer season. It is a package of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

 The Revised Dietary Guidelines released by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) after 13 years noted that sugarcane juice, which we all love to consume in summer must be avoided since it is not healthy at all. Expert shares possible reasons and other alternative options  Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare