Ottoman beverage: history and modern reality
In the famous series "The Great Century," the characters are often shown drinking juice – a thick and sweet beverage. This was reported by Upl.uz.
This drink is presented in beautiful silver vessels. In 16th century Istanbul, juice served to quench thirst in hot weather and was an important part of the culture of the Ottoman Empire.
It was valued not only as a refreshing drink but also as an energizing and mood-lifting beverage. But is the juice really as safe as the sultans thought?
To find the answer to this question, we consulted nutritionist Yevgeny Arzamatsev. He explained what properties are hidden behind this traditional drink and whether it is advisable to consume it today.
In the Ottoman Empire, juice was an integral part of palace life. It was made from fruits, water, and a large amount of sugar, sometimes using spices or herbs as well.
For example, pomegranate juice was mixed with cinnamon, apricot puree with rose petals, or watermelon rind cooked in honey was added. Such compositions were considered not only tasty but also believed to have healing properties.
In hot climates, it helped cool the body, provided energy with its sweetness, and aided in overcoming fatigue. The Ottomans believed that juice was a "cooling" agent for the blood and a protector against heat.
It was presented with mint to clarify thoughts before important negotiations or as a calming agent in the harem. Some even believed it could enhance attractiveness.
But what does modern science say about this? Nutritionist Yevgeny Arzamatsev states that juice does indeed contain beneficial substances.
For example, pomegranate juice is rich in iron, while citrus fruits provide vitamin C. However, the main ingredient – sugar – can make the drink harmful.
"Half a cup of sugar is used for one glass of fruit puree. This is like eating three apricots and then adding six teaspoons of sugar," says the specialist.
This composition can lead to a rapid increase in blood sugar, providing quick energy. For sultans, who typically ate twice a day, this was beneficial as juice helped maintain strength.
However, today, for individuals with constant access to food, regular consumption of such a drink can lead to problems. "Sugar causes sharp fluctuations in blood sugar, which overloads the body and leads to fatigue," adds Arzamatsev.
In the 16th century, people did not have modern knowledge about nutrition, and juice was almost accepted as a health elixir. It was consumed not only for pleasure but also for practical purposes.
For example, mint juice was used to calm nerves, while cold drinks served to focus attention before the council of viziers. In the harem, it was viewed as a mood enhancer and an attractiveness booster.
However, the nutritionist emphasizes that the effects of juice are temporary. "Sugar provides short-term energy, but then it drops.
This is like modern energy drinks – they initially invigorate, but then fatigue sets in," says Arzamatsev. In the limited diet of people of that time, juice was indeed helpful.
Today, however, due to the variety of available foods, juice is more likely to cause harm. Can juice be included in the diet?
The nutritionist recommends consuming it in small amounts and infrequently. "If you want to drink juice once a month at a celebration, there is no harm in that.
But for daily consumption, it is too sweet," says the specialist. Instead of a traditional recipe, the doctor suggests a modern alternative.
For example, freezing date and pomegranate puree without added sugar can be beneficial and
