A chilled glass of sugarcane juice from a roadside stall helps beat the heat like no other. Affordable, sweet, and rich in minerals, this lip-smacking coolant is a popular choice for Indians when the sun threatens to dehydrate us. As the temptation to sneak a drink becomes a daily occurrence, we wonder if it is a healthy choice in the long term. As such, indianexpress.com spoke to health experts to understand what happens to the body when you drink ganne ka ras every day.
Meenu Balaji, chief nutritionist at Pragmatic Nutrition, Chennai, said that when you consume sugarcane juice daily, you run the risk of loading up on calories without sufficient fibre to balance it out. It is high in sugar content and can cause sharp blood glucose spikes, which makes it a no-go for diabetics, those suffering from gut health issues, or people trying to watch their weight.
“Also, drinking ganne ka ras from roadside shops can raise concerns over cleanliness and quality of ice used in the drink, since they can lead to bacterial contamination and infections,” she added.
Deepalakshmi, a registered dietitian at Shree Balaji Medical Centre, Chennai, added that excessive intake may also contribute to dental issues such as cavities and tooth enamel erosion. “There is also a potential for microbial contamination when the juice is extracted and stored under unhygienic conditions, which can lead to foodborne illnesses, including gastrointestinal infections and hepatitis,” she told this outlet.
Sugarcane is not very rich in fiber (Source: Freepik)
Are there any benefits to drinking sugarcane juice?
However, Balaji said that drinking in moderation can offer numerous benefits during the hot and humid months. According to her, sugarcane juice is a source of minerals like potassium and magnesium. Hence, it is a good choice to manage electrolyte loss during hot days.
“Needless to say, it is a quick source of energy and can be had after a workout. Being a good source of potassium, sugarcane juice helps with urination and also supports kidney function,” she added.
How often can you indulge?
“Avoid drinking sugar cane juice every day if you have a sedentary lifestyle. You can drink sugary juice once a week on very hot days. Choose other alternatives like buttermilk, which is lower in calories and is good for gut health,” suggested Balaji.
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For healthy individuals, Deepalakshmi advised consuming approximately 150 to 200 ml per serving, not more than two to three times a week at best.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
