Milk and honey are popular ingredients commonly used in various desserts and drinks, due to their distinct flavor and soothing properties.
These ingredients have been extensively researched and are known for their therapeutic benefits. They are natural remedies used to treat several health conditions.
The health benefits of these two ingredients are significant, but they also come with some downsides that need to be considered.
This article aims to explore the health benefits and side effects of consuming milk and honey.
10 Health Benefits of Honey and Milk
Here are some milk and honey drink benefits:
1. Promotes Restful Sleep
Many people have trouble sleeping at night, but a glass of warm milk with honey before bed can help promote a good night’s sleep. This is because natural sugar, such as honey, can turn off the neurotransmitter called orexin, which is responsible for disrupting the body and keeping it awake. Honey consumption also stimulates the brain to release insulin and tryptophan, which helps produce serotonin and melatonin, two hormones that promote restful sleep.
2. Keeps the Skin Moisturized:
Moisturizing is essential to keep the skin soft and supple. Milk and honey work together to protect the skin from infections, acne, and pollution damage. Milk cleanses and hydrates the skin, while honey moisturizes it and gives a natural glow.
3. Brings the Shine Back
Damaged and brittle hair is revitalized with a honey-and-milk hair pack, which leaves it silky and shiny. The pack’s moisturizing effect strengthens the hair strands, giving them a smooth texture while keeping their strength. This natural treatment has the same effect as using a conditioner, but it is 100% natural and free of chemicals.
4. Builds Strong Bones
Milk and honey are both essential for maintaining strong bones. Milk is a rich source of calcium, which is necessary for building and maintaining bone density. Honey, on the other hand, contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that promote bone structure. Moreover, honey provides energy and has a delightful taste, making it an excellent addition to any diet.
5. Improves Digestive Health
Milk and honey make a delicious drink that can help keep your digestive system running smoothly. The probiotic properties of milk encourage the growth of good bacteria in the gut, while the natural enzymes in honey help to cleanse the colon and eliminate undigested food. As a result, constipation and cramps are less likely, and the digestive system functions better overall.
6. Works on Slow Skin Ageing
Milk and honey have antioxidant properties that help to slow down the ageing process and reduce wrinkles. These compounds protect the skin from free radicals that damage it and cause wrinkles, blemishes, and other signs of ageing.
7. Keeps the Skin Healthy and Alive
Milk and honey contain several essential nutrients that nourish the skin and keep it smooth and supple. Proteins, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals help to stimulate healthy tissue formation from the inside out.
8. Strengthens Hair
Using a honey-and-milk hair pack can improve the vitality of damaged and dull hair, leaving it smooth and lustrous. The hydrating effect of the pack strengthens the hair strands, providing a smooth texture while maintaining its strength. This natural treatment has the same effect as using a conditioner, but it is free of chemicals.
9. Enhance The Tmmune System
Milk and honey are popular for their ability to enhance the immune system. Milk contains essential minerals and vitamins such as magnesium, calcium, and vitamin D, while honey is packed with antibacterial properties and antioxidants. When combined, they can help bolster the body’s defenses and safeguard against illnesses and infections.
10. Treatment of Cough and Cold
If you’re feeling unwell due to cough and cold, a glass of warm milk with honey can provide relief to a sore throat and help ease the symptoms. Honey, being a natural cough suppressant, can help to reduce inflammation in the throat, while milk can help soothe and coat irritated tissues.
Side Effects of Drinking Milk With Honey
Although milk with honey is generally considered a healthy beverage, there can be side effects associated with excessive consumption or certain health conditions. Here are some of the possible side effects of drinking milk with honey:
- Regular consumption of milk and honey can result in increased lipid absorption due to the high fat content of both ingredients.
- People who are lactose intolerant should avoid milk and honey drinks. Yogurt is a good alternative to milk because it contains little to no lactose.
- Excessive consumption of honey, which contains grayanotoxins, can cause nerve damage due to its toxic effects on the nervous system.
Warnings & Considerations
It’s important to avoid giving honey to children below the age of two since it may cause a rare condition called baby botulism. Even though the risk is low, it can be fatal to infants, and it’s not worth taking a chance.
To get the maximum benefits from your milk and honey drink, it’s crucial to be aware of how much honey you’re using.
Excessive intake of anything can lead to side effects, so it’s better to stick to small doses to achieve the most benefits with the least adverse effects.
Interaction With Medications
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming honey with medications, as it may interact with certain drugs and affect their effectiveness.
For example, when taking blood-thinning medications, taking honey alongside them may heighten the risk of bleeding. Likewise, certain antibiotics, such as tetracycline, may have their absorption affected by milk. Hence, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before consuming milk and honey, especially when taking any medications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, milk and honey are not only delicious and comforting, but they also provide numerous health and beauty benefits. From aiding insomnia to improving skin and hair health, this classic combination can work wonders for your well-being.
It’s important to consult a medical expert before incorporating honey and milk into your diet, particularly if you have any pre-existing health issues or are currently taking medications.
