Benefits of Sattu Sharbat: Sattu Sharbat, a humble drink made from roasted gram flour (also known as roasted chana or Bengal gram), has been a traditional summer beverage in Indian households, especially in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and parts of West Bengal. While many associate it simply as a rural drink to beat the heat, modern science and Ayurveda both highlight the immense health benefits of sattu. Often called a natural protein drink, it is cost-effective, power-packed, and has medicinal value. In this article, we dive deep into the advantages of drinking sattu sharbat and the ailments it can help alleviate.
What Is Sattu Sharbat?
Benefits of Sattu Sharbat, Sattu is a flour-like powder made by dry roasting Bengal gram and then grinding it. It can be mixed with water to make a sweet or salty drink, commonly known as Sattu Sharbat. You can add lemon, salt, cumin, coriander, and mint to make it savory or mix it with jaggery for a sweet version.
1. A Natural Protein Booster
Sattu contains up to 20–25% natural plant-based protein, making it ideal for vegetarians and vegans. Consuming it as a drink allows the body to absorb protein easily without burdening the digestive system.
Helps Build Muscle and Strength
For those engaged in physical labor or workouts, sattu can be a natural pre- or post-workout drink. It aids in muscle recovery and provides sustained energy.
2. Maintains Gut and Digestive Health
Sattu is highly alkaline and has a soothing effect on the stomach.
Prevents Acidity and Bloating
Sattu sharbat cools the stomach lining and helps neutralize excess stomach acid, offering relief from gas, acidity, and bloating.
Improves Digestion
The high fiber content in sattu promotes smoother bowel movements and can help prevent constipation.
3. Regulates Blood Sugar and Manages Diabetes
Sattu has a low glycemic index, which means it releases sugar slowly into the bloodstream. This makes it ideal for diabetics.
Controls Sugar Spikes
Drinking sattu sharbat in the morning can prevent sudden spikes in blood glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity over time.
4. Detoxifies the Body
Sattu acts as a natural detoxifier.
Removes Toxins from Liver and Colon
The fiber and nutrients help cleanse the colon and support liver function, making it useful in preventing fatty liver, liver inflammation, and sluggish metabolism.
5. Promotes Weight Loss
Sattu is rich in fiber and protein, both of which help in appetite control.
Keeps You Fuller for Longer
Drinking sattu sharbat in the morning curbs hunger and prevents unhealthy snacking, aiding in natural weight loss.
6. Maintains Hydration and Electrolyte Balance
In Indian summers, excessive heat leads to dehydration and fatigue. Sattu, when consumed with lemon and salt, acts as an excellent oral rehydration solution.
Prevents Heat Stroke
It helps in replenishing lost electrolytes like sodium and potassium, keeping body temperature stable.
7. Heart Health and Blood Pressure Regulation
Sattu is cholesterol-free and rich in magnesium and potassium, which support cardiovascular health.
Controls High Blood Pressure
The potassium helps in relaxing blood vessels, thereby reducing blood pressure. The absence of cholesterol also helps in preventing artery blockage.
8. Boosts Immunity and Fights Infections
With nutrients like iron, manganese, and magnesium, sattu enhances the immune response.
Prevents Seasonal Illnesses
Benefits of Sattu Sharbat, Regular intake can help the body resist common colds, viral fevers, and fatigue, especially in monsoon and summer seasons.
9. Beneficial for Skin and Hair
The detoxifying properties of sattu reflect in the form of clear skin and stronger hair.
Rich in Iron and Essential Minerals
Improved blood circulation from iron intake nourishes the skin and prevents hair fall due to nutrient deficiency.
10. Boosts Energy Instantly
Benefits of Sattu Sharbat, Sattu is known as the “Poor Man’s Protein Shake,” but its impact on energy levels is profound.
Instant Recharge Without Sugar Crash
Unlike processed energy drinks, sattu offers a natural and sustained energy boost, making it perfect for long working hours or heat-exposed environments.
Diseases and Conditions Sattu May Help Prevent or Manage
Condition/Disease | How Sattu Helps |
Acidity and Gastric Issues | Neutralizes stomach acid, improves digestion |
Diabetes | Low GI, controls blood sugar spikes |
Obesity | Controls appetite, low in calories |
High Blood Pressure | Rich in potassium, no cholesterol |
Liver Disorders (like fatty liver) | Detoxifies liver and improves metabolism |
Dehydration and Heat Stroke | Hydrates and restores electrolyte balance |
Anemia (Mild cases) | Provides iron and boosts hemoglobin |
Skin Disorders (due to toxins) | Detox action clears skin |
How and When to Drink Sattu Sharbat
- Best time to consume: Morning on an empty stomach or mid-morning as a snack replacement.
- Sweet Version: Mix 2 tablespoons sattu + water + jaggery (or honey).
- Salty Version: Mix sattu with cold water, lemon, roasted cumin, black salt, and mint.
Precautions
- People with low blood pressure should avoid consuming salty sattu frequently.
- Overconsumption (more than 100g/day) can cause heaviness for those with weak digestion.
- Always use clean, filtered water for the sharbat.
Benefits of Sattu Sharbat, Sattu Sharbat isn’t just a rural energy drink; it’s a nutrient-rich, disease-fighting superfood. From weight loss and digestion to diabetes and heart health, this one traditional drink covers it all. In a world moving towards artificial supplements, going back to ancient Indian wisdom like sattu can lead to natural, sustainable wellness.
Try making sattu sharbat a part of your daily routine, and within a few weeks, you’ll begin to feel the difference — in energy, digestion, and overall health.
(Disclaimer: The information given here is based on general information. Before adopting it, definitely take medical advice. THE MONK does not confirm this.)