Get-togethers are all about catching up with friends and family, good vibes, and good food. And it is at such events that many of us tend to overeat maida-laden snacks, processed munchies, heavy (and late) dinner, and washing it down with glasses of soda — only to wake up feeling dehydrated and bloated the next day. Well, if you are nodding after reading this and are among those looking for a solution to overcome this feeling, we hear you.
Dietitian Sonia Narang has a hack that promises to make you feel rejuvenated — all you need to drink is water infused with pomegranate, star anise, and mint. “Can infuse some fruits/herbs/spices in water and reap different health benefits. Pomegranate provides antioxidants, while star anise may aid digestion. Mint helps freshen breath and soothe upset stomachs,” said Narang.
This water shall help you debloat, while also helping hydrate the body — which will also reflect a loss on the scale, added Narang.
But does this concoction truly work?
Sushma PS, chief dietitian, at Jindal Naturecure Institute said that because of their distinct qualities, pomegranate, star anise, and mint water “can help with post-meal digestion”. “Pungenicagins, which are abundant in pomegranates and help fight inflammation and shield cells from harm by free radicals, are antioxidants. It also has fibre, which supports regular bowel motions and aids in good digestion,” said Sushma.
These antioxidants, particularly punicalagins and anthocyanins, help neutralise free radicals and support liver function, which is essential for detoxification, added Dr Urvi Maheshwari, internal medicine expert, Zynova Shalby Hospital.
Thanks to star anise‘s carminative qualities, gas, bloating, and indigestion can be reduced. “Moreover, it contains substances like shikimic acid, which may help with liver function and detoxification procedures,” said Sushma.
Do you have pomegranate? (Source: Freepik)
Mint is highly valued for its ability to calm the gastrointestinal tract. Sushma elucidated that the main ingredient in mint, menthol, can calm the muscles that make up the gastrointestinal tract, lessening discomfort and spasms. “Moreover, it possesses antibacterial qualities that might aid in the fight against dangerous gut bacteria,” said Sushma.
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How to make it?
When these components are mixed with water, a delightful and possibly healthy beverage is produced. Star anise helps with digestion, pomegranate offers antioxidants, and mint has calming qualities. “Although there isn’t any concrete proof that combining these items improves detoxification, their flavours go well together and may even aid with digestion,” said Sushma.
Agreed Dr Maheshwari and shared that combining these three ingredients in water creates a hydrating beverage that can help flush out toxins, improve digestion, and alleviate post-meal bloating and discomfort. “Drinking this infused water can also promote hydration, which is essential for overall health and well-being,” said Dr Maheshwari.
The ideal way to consume this water is to simply combine fresh pomegranate seeds, star anise pods, and mint leaves with water and allow the flavours to infuse for a few hours in the refrigerator, said Dr Mahesh Gupta, senior consultant, gastroenterology at Dharamshila Narayana Hospital Delhi. “Enjoying a glass of this revitalising beverage after a heavy meal can help alleviate digestive discomfort and promote overall well-being,” said Dr Gupta.
The expert pointed out that the process of detoxification is mostly carried out by the liver and kidneys, thus “depending exclusively on drinks for detoxification might not be adequate”. “Eating a well-balanced diet and staying hydrated are essential components of detoxification,” said Sushma.
