As Ramadan approaches, many are seeking healthier alternatives to the sugary drinks commonly consumed during Iftar. Dr. Amina Hassan, a consultant dietician, has shared a weight-loss drink recipe she claims can help shed 4-5 kg during the holy month. The drink includes ingredients like cucumber, chia seeds, carrots, lemon, ginger, and beetroot, soaked in water for 2-3 hours before drinking it during non-fasting hours.
Dr. Amina’s Claims:
Dr. Hassan highlights several benefits of this detox drink:
- Improves digestion: Helps with bloating and constipation.
- Boosts energy: Increases freshness and alleviates post-Iftar fatigue.
- Detoxifies: Removes toxins from the body and promotes glowing skin.
- Supports metabolism: Speeds up the weight loss process.
- Health benefits: Particularly useful for those with conditions like PCOS, diabetes, fatty liver, high blood pressure, and cholesterol.
- Low in calories: Almost zero-calorie drink.
However, clinical dietician Dr. Ridhima Khamesra offers a more balanced perspective on whether this drink will help with weight loss. While she acknowledges the health benefits of the ingredients, she clarifies that no single beverage can lead to significant weight loss. According to Dr. Khamesra, the combination of cucumber, carrot, chia seeds, lemon, ginger, and beetroot can be beneficial for hydration, digestion, and metabolism, but it won’t directly cause weight loss without overall calorie reduction and exercise.
The Benefits of the Ingredients
- Cucumber and lemon: Great for hydration, which supports metabolic function.
- Ginger: Aids digestion and metabolism, helping reduce bloating.
- Chia seeds: Help manage blood sugar levels and control cravings.
- Beetroot: Contains antioxidants for healthy skin and supports heart health by regulating blood pressure.
While these ingredients are beneficial, Dr. Khamesra emphasizes that detox waters should not be viewed as a miracle solution. The body already has a natural detox system through the liver and kidneys. Detox waters may encourage hydration and provide vitamins and antioxidants, but true weight loss and toxin removal depend on a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper hydration.
Precautions
Dr. Khamesra also points out some considerations:
- Acid reflux or bloating: Some individuals may experience discomfort due to ginger and lemon.
- Diabetes: Those with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels because of the natural sugars in carrots and beetroot.
- Kidney health: Beetroot, with its oxalates, may not be suitable for those with kidney issues.
Conclusion
Drinking this detox water can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet, especially as an alternative to sugary drinks, but it will not lead to significant weight loss on its own. Sustainable weight loss requires a combination of a well-rounded diet, calorie management, regular physical activity, and adequate hydration.
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