Summer special: What is mohabbat ka sharbat, and is it healthy?

Mohabbat ka Sharbat — the luscious pink drink commonly served during summer — is enjoyed by many. The beverage made of rose syrup, watermelon, and milk not only quenches thirst but also makes one feel refreshed instantly. This is why we were taken aback when content creator Ani Setia suggested that the quintessential summer drink is not good for health, and called it a “toxic combination”.

“It is a wrong combination as per Ayurveda. Watermelon is a diuretic as per science. When milk is added to it, it makes for a toxic combination. It affects your digestion capability in the long term. Never combine watery fruits with milk,” Setia stated on Instagram.

Flabbergasted, we reached out to experts.

Agreed nutritionist Arooshi Aggarwal, sharing that consuming watermelon and milk together causes digestive issues. “It would not only disturb the gut flora but might cause food ingestion issues as well,” Aggarwal told indianexpress.com.

Adding milk to watermelon juice can create a creamy beverage, but it’s not ideal for digestion as the combination may cause stomach discomfort for some people due to differing digestion rates, explained Dt Priyanka Bandal, senior dietician, Manipal Hospitals, Baner, Pune. “Watermelon is best consumed on its own for optimal digestion and nutrient absorptio,” said Bandal.

Should you be combining watery fruits like watermelon with milk? (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Further, the rose syrup used is often high in sugar, which can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of diabetes if consumed in excess, said Dt Amreen Shaikh, head dietician, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central. “Those who are lactose intolerant might find the milk problematic,” said Shaikh.

Additionally, the added sugar and milk can make it relatively high in calories, which could be a concern for those managing their weight, added Shaikh.

 

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Things to note if you want to try this popular beverage

Shaikh shared a few pointers: 

*Moderation: Enjoy it occasionally rather than daily.
*Lower sugar: Use a reduced sugar rose syrup or adjust the quantity.
*Lactose-free option: Consider using lactose-free milk or plant-based alternatives.

Aggarwal said that one can try plant-based milk with watermelon to make Mohabbat ka Sharbat. “One can make a good smoothie by adding overnight soaked nuts, dates, and honey,” said Aggarwal.

“Mohabbat ka sharbat can be enjoyed as a refreshing treat, especially if consumed in moderation and with adjustments to reduce sugar content,” said Shaikh.

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