Milk and honey boast numerous health advantages, including improved sleep quality, stronger bones, and enhanced cardiovascular health. However, it's essential to consume them in moderation, as they may also have potential side effects. This delightful pairing is a timeless combination, frequently showcased in a variety of beverages and desserts across the globe. Beyond their comforting and soothing qualities, milk and honey can infuse a luscious flavor into your beloved dishes. As an added bonus, these two ingredients have been extensively studied for their therapeutic properties and are commonly employed as natural remedies for various health issues.

This article delves into the benefits and potential drawbacks associated with honey and milk.

Health Benefits

The combination of milk and honey offers numerous potential health advantages that are worth exploring.

Enhances Sleep Quality

Many individuals enjoy a warm glass of milk sweetened with honey as a soothing bedtime ritual, and this practice is supported by scientific evidence. A study involving 68 patients hospitalized for heart conditions revealed that consuming a milk and honey blend twice daily over three days significantly improved their overall sleep quality. Moreover, multiple studies suggest that both milk and honey can independently contribute to better sleep outcomes.

For instance, research indicated that giving children 10 grams (approximately 1/2 tablespoon) of honey half an hour before bedtime led to enhanced sleep quality and lessened nighttime coughing among 300 children suffering from respiratory issues. Similarly, a study focused on 421 elderly individuals found that regular consumption of milk or dairy products correlated with fewer difficulties in falling asleep.

Promotes Bone Strength

Milk is an excellent source of calcium, a vital nutrient for maintaining healthy bones. Some studies suggest that drinking milk may enhance bone mineral density and could be associated with a reduced risk of osteoporosis and fractures. The addition of honey to milk might amplify these bone-strengthening effects even further. Notably, one review highlighted that honey possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory attributes that could support bone health. Additionally, another review of nine studies indicated that honey supplementation could mitigate some adverse effects linked to physical activity while promoting bone formation.

May Support Heart Health

Both milk and honey are linked to various potential benefits for heart health. Specifically, milk has been found to raise levels of HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, which plays a critical role in clearing plaque from arteries, thereby offering protection against heart disease. However, this benefit has primarily been associated with whole milk rather than skim milk.

Moreover, milk is abundant in potassium, an essential nutrient known for its ability to help lower blood pressure. On the other hand, studies indicate that honey can lower triglyceride levels, total cholesterol, and LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol—all significant risk factors for heart disease. It may also diminish several inflammatory markers, which could further contribute to heart disease risk. Overall, research has indicated that the combination of milk and honey may enhance sleep quality, bolster bone strength, and promote heart health.

Potential Drawbacks

While the combination of milk and honey can provide numerous health advantages, there are several important drawbacks worth considering. Firstly, cow's milk  may not be appropriate for individuals who are lactose intolerant, adhering to a dairy-free lifestyle, or those with a milk allergy. In regions like India and Australia, many people opt for plant-based milk alternatives to avoid these issues.

Moreover, the consumption of dairy products has been correlated with an increased risk of certain dermatological issues, including acne, rosacea, and eczema. In Japan, for instance, some traditional diets minimize dairy intake to avoid such skin problems. It's crucial to remember that despite honey's health benefits, it is also rich in sugar and calories. Excessive intake of added sugars can lead to various health concerns, including weight gain, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and liver complications. In Canada, public health recommendations emphasize limiting added sugars in the diet.

Honey is not recommended for infants under 12 months due to the presence of bacteria that could trigger infant botulism, a severe and potentially life-threatening condition. This caution is universally recognized across many cultures. Additionally, heating honey to elevated temperatures can lead to an increase in hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), a compound that may have both beneficial and detrimental effects on health when consumed in excessive quantities. Therefore, it is advisable to regulate your honey intake and avoid subjecting it to high heat to optimize its potential health benefits.

In summary, while milk might elevate the risk of certain skin ailments and prove unsuitable for specific individuals, honey's high sugar content and the potential formation of HMF when heated also warrant caution. Furthermore, it is critical to keep in mind that honey should not be given to children younger than 12 months.

The Bottom Line

Milk (doodh) and honey (shahad) are two exceptionally beneficial ingredients known for their multitude of health advantages. These natural foods have been linked to enhancements in sleep quality, bolstering bone strength, and supporting heart health. For instance, in Australia, many people incorporate honey into their evening routines for a calming effect, while in Japan, warm milk is often consumed as a sleep aid. However, it's important to note that these foods may not suit everyone and could present some adverse effects for certain individuals. Therefore, it is advisable to consume these ingredients in moderation, ensuring they complement a well-rounded diet.