Summer is here, and with it comes the sweltering heat. During these hot months, it's important to stay hydrated and keep cool — and what better way to do this than with refreshing summer drinks? From fruity infusions to ice-cold matcha lattes, there's a drink to suit every taste.
Let's take a look at some of the best options to beat the heat and the benefits they offer.
What Is the Best Summer Cold Drink?
When the temperatures rise, there's nothing better than a cold drink to keep you refreshed. But which summer drinks are best for this? The answer may vary depending on your preference, but here are some top contenders.
Iced Matcha Latte
Matcha, a finely ground powder made from specially grown and processed green tea leaves, is delicious and rich in antioxidants. An iced matcha latte is a great choice for a refreshing and energizing drink in summer.
The benefits of matcha include:
- High in antioxidants: Matcha is rich in catechins, a type of antioxidant that prevents cell damage and provides numerous health benefits.
- Boosts metabolism: The combination of caffeine and catechins in matcha can boost metabolism to help with weight management.
- Improves mood and concentration: Matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and improves concentration.
For an iced matcha latte, simply whisk matcha powder with water, add ice, and top with your favorite milk. This refreshing matcha iced drink is perfect for hot summer days.
Beauty Matcha Latte
Beauty Matcha Latte includes all the benefits of matcha, plus the beauty benefits of mushrooms and collagen and the relaxation benefits of L-Theanine. Beauty Matcha Latte also includes ginger, turmeric, maca, and gogi.
Fasting Matcha
Fasting Matcha also includes all the benefits of matcha, and extra ingredients including spirulina, turmeric, ginger, and gogi. It’s smooth, sweet, and energy-boosting.
Summer Berry Drinks
Berries are synonymous with summer, and incorporating them into your drinks can boost both taste and health. Summer berry drinks are refreshing and rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
Let's look at some popular options.
Blueberry Lemonade
Blueberries are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage. By adding blueberries to your lemonade, you can increase its nutritional value and add a delicious twist to the classic summer drink.
Strawberry Basil Infusion
Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants. Combine them with basil, which has anti-inflammatory properties, and you have a unique and refreshing drink that’s perfect for summer.
Hydrating Herbal Teas
Herbal teas can be a great way to stay hydrated and cool during the summer months. Some of the best summer drinks include herbal infusions that offer both flavor and health benefits.
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea has a cooling effect on the body, making it an ideal drink for hot weather. It's also known to aid digestion and relieve headaches, which can be particularly beneficial during the summer.
Hibiscus Tea
Hibiscus tea is rich in antioxidants and has been shown to lower blood pressure. Its tart flavor is refreshing, and it can be enjoyed both hot and cold.
Coconut Water
Coconut water is nature's sports drink. It provides electrolytes and hydration without added sugar. It's a great option to keep hydrated and cool in the summer.
- Electrolytes: Potassium, magnesium, and sodium help maintain fluid balance and prevent dehydration.
- Natural sugars: Provides a quick source of energy without the crash associated with artificial sweeteners.
Summer Drink Recipes
Incorporating these ingredients into your summer drink recipes can help you stay cool and hydrated.
Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Iced Blueberry Matcha Latte
For a refreshing start to the day, try this blueberry matcha latte. Start by putting blueberry jam in the bottom of a glass and then add ice cubes and oat milk. In a separate cup, mix Beauty Matcha Latte or Fasting Matcha with monk fruit and hot water. Pour the matcha mixture into the glass and enjoy a delicious, antioxidant-rich drink.
Berry Mint Cooler
This summer berry drink combines the refreshing taste of mint with the antioxidant power of berries. Simply add fresh berries, mint leaves, and ice, and top with sparkling water for a fizzy, refreshing drink.
Iced Matcha Lemonade
Combine the benefits of matcha with the taste of lemonade. Mix matcha powder with water, add lemon juice and a sweetener of your choice, and serve over ice.
Herbal Tea Spritzer
Brew your favorite herbal tea and let it cool. Add sparkling water and a splash of fruit juice for a refreshing and hydrating summer drink.
The Bottom Line
Staying cool and hydrated is important in the summer months, and these summer drinks offer both refreshment and health benefits. From antioxidant-rich matcha lattes to hydrating coconut water, there's something for everyone. Experiment with different ingredients and recipes to find your perfect summer drink. Enjoy the taste and benefits of these delicious drinks as you beat the heat this summer.
Looking to add more delicious and nourishing ingredients into your life? Try Kroma’s 5-Day Reset! The Reset offers 5 days of superfoods and drinks with plenty of health benefits. Learn more about the Reset here!
Sources
7 Proven Ways Matcha Tea Improves Your Health | Healthline
Depression: How Matcha Tea Powder May Help Ease Symptoms | Healthline
Coconut Water Benefits | WebMD
5 Health Benefits of Blueberry Juice | Saber Healthcare Group
Science-Backed Benefits of Peppermint Tea and Extracts | Forbes
7 Science-Based Health Benefits of Coconut Water | Healthline
7 Benefits of Hibiscus Tea | Cleveland Clinic
Strawberry Basil Infused Water | The Domestic Life Stylist
Turn to Tea for an Assist With Hydration | Healthy Nurse Healthy Nation