Is it healthy to mix milk with honey? Let’s find out!

Milk and honey is quite a favourite when it comes to sweet, warm and feel-good drinks that one can end our days with. Not only is this drink very comforting, but a glass of milk and honey before bed has immense benefits as well. From improving digestion to better sleep, milk with honey is a wholesome drink that must be tried. While the benefits of honey and milk might be many, there are a few side effects also that one has to keep in mind. So if you have questions on how to mix honey with milk, how much honey to mix with milk, can I mix honey with hot milk, we’re here to answer these for you! Read on to learn more about the benefits of mixing milk with honey.

Can you mix milk with honey?

Mixing milk with honey is a common and delicious combination. It can be added to hot beverages like tea or coffee, or used as a sweetener in recipes. “Honey and milk are both nutritious and can provide a range of health benefits when consumed together,” explains dietician Kejal Shah.

Nutritional value of honey

According to the US Department of Agriculture, 20 gram of honey contains

• Calories: 61
• Fat: 0 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Carbohydrate: 17 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Calcium: 1.2 mg
• Iron: 0.084 mg
• Magnesium: 0.4 mg

Benefits of drinking milk with honey

1. Nutrient-rich combination

Milk is a good source of calcium, protein, vitamins (such as B12 and D), and minerals (such as phosphorus). Honey is rich in antioxidants and contains essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals. When combined, they create a nutrient-dense drink that can help support overall health and well-being.

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2. Boosts immunity and digestion

Both milk and honey have immune-boosting properties. Honey has antibacterial and antiviral properties, while milk contains immunoglobulins and other immune-boosting compounds. Consuming them together can help strengthen the immune system and protect against illnesses. Honey is known for its digestive benefits, as it can help soothe and heal the digestive system. Milk is also easy to digest for many people. When consumed together, they can aid in digestion and relieve gastrointestinal discomfort. A study, published in Frontiers in Nutrition, states that honey has pre-biotic properties that re-engineer gut microbe, making it more healthy.

3. Promotes better sleep

Does honey help you sleep? Yes! Warm milk and honey is a common bedtime remedy for promoting better sleep. Milk contains tryptophan, an amino acid that can help induce sleep, while honey helps regulate the release of melatonin, a hormone that plays a role in sleep-wake cycles. Drinking this combination before bed can help you relax and fall asleep more easily. Mixing milk with honey can also help heart health. A study, published in Clinical Nutrition ESPEN, showed that drinking honey milk, twice every day, for three days, helped improve sleep quality.

4. Supports bone health

Milk is a good source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones. Honey contains minerals like magnesium and phosphorus, which also play a role in bone health. Consuming milk with honey regularly can help support bone density and prevent osteoporosis. A study, published in Evidence Based Complementary and Alternate Medicine, states that honey protects bone as it is anti-inflammatory. A study, published in Nutrients, suggests that drinking milk helps to build mineral density in the bones.

Overall, mixing milk with honey can be a wholesome and nutritious combination that offers a range of health benefits for the body.

Side effects of mixing milk with honey

While mixing milk with honey can have various health benefits, there are some drawbacks to consider:

1. Weight gain

Both milk and honey are relatively high in calories and sugar. Consuming them in excess or as a regular part of your diet without considering portion sizes can contribute to weight gain over time.

2. Lactose intolerance

Some people are lactose intolerant, meaning they lack the enzyme necessary to digest lactose, the sugar found in milk. Consuming milk can lead to digestive issues like bloating, gas, and diarrhoea for these individuals. Adding honey to milk may exacerbate these symptoms in susceptible individuals.

3. Potential allergic reactions

While milk and honey are not common allergens, some individuals may have allergies to either one. Mixing the two increases the likelihood of an allergic reaction occurring, such as skin rashes, hives, or digestive issues.

4. Blood sugar levels

Honey is a natural sweetener that can raise blood sugar levels due to its high sugar content. People with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels should consume honey in moderation, especially when mixed with milk, which also contains natural sugars.

5. Indigestion

For some individuals, the combination of milk and honey can lead to digestive discomfort or indigestion. This may be due to the proteins in milk or the natural sugars in honey causing gastrointestinal issues like gas, bloating, or stomach upset.

It’s essential to consider your individual health needs, dietary restrictions, and tolerance to specific foods before incorporating milk with honey into your diet. Moderation and understanding your body’s responses to this combination are key to reaping the benefits without experiencing negative effects.

How much honey to mix in milk?

Start with 1 to 2 teaspoons of honey in a cup of milk and adjust to taste based on your preference, explains Shah. Be mindful of your sugar intake and health conditions when adding honey to milk. Experiment with flavors like cinnamon or vanilla for added taste. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

What to remember while mixing milk with honey?

When mixing milk with honey, remember to use high-quality ingredients, adjust sweetness to taste, stir well, consider health factors, experiment with flavors, and enjoy in moderation.

FAQs

Can mixing milk with honey make you put on weight?

Mixing milk with honey can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. Both milk and honey contain calories and carbohydrates, which can add to your daily calorie intake if consumed in large quantities. It is important to be mindful of portion sizes and overall calorie intake to prevent weight gain. Additionally, the added sugars in honey can also contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. Enjoying milk with honey in moderation as part of a balanced diet is unlikely to cause significant weight gain, but it is always best to be mindful of portion sizes and overall calorie intake.

Can you have milk mixed with honey every day?

Yes, you can have milk mixed with honey every day as part of a balanced diet. Milk and honey are nutritious foods that offer various health benefits, such as providing essential nutrients, and antioxidants, and promoting good gut health. However, it is important to consume them in moderation and be mindful of portion sizes to prevent overconsumption of calories and sugar. If you have any dietary restrictions, allergies, or health conditions that may be affected by consuming milk and honey, it is advisable to consult with a qualified dietitian or nutritionist before incorporating them into your daily diet.

Can you mix honey in cold milk or should you mix in hot milk?

You can mix honey in both cold and hot milk, depending on your preference. In cold milk, honey may take longer to dissolve completely, so make sure to stir well. Hot milk and honey should not be overheated to preserve honey’s beneficial properties. Ultimately, whether you choose to mix honey in cold or hot milk is a matter of personal preference.