Turmeric milk is something we have all grown up with – whether it was a cough or cold or to boost immunity, it’s been our go-to remedy from childhood to adulthood. It is also called golden milk due to its golden-yellow colour and its golden health benefits.
Did you know? Golden milk is an ancient drink known for its roots in Ayurveda. Also called ‘haldi doodh’, it was used for centuries for healing and immunity.
Turmeric milk is widely preferred for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Turmeric is a flowering plant from the ginger family and is scientifically called Curcuma Longa.
According to an expert nutritionist at the CK Birla Hospital, Ms. Deepali Sharma, turmeric milk is the immunity hero to the body. Varying research reveals that curcumin in turmeric naturally possesses antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, which may help prevent infections and illnesses.
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| Fiber | 2.1 g |
| Protein | 0.91 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6.31 g |
| Calcium | 15.8 mg |
| Iron | 5.17 mg |
| Magnesium | 19.6 mg |
| Phosphorus | 28.1 mg |
| Potassium | 196 mg |
| Sugar | 0.3 g |
| Fat | 0.31 g |
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Turmeric milk is known to have various health benefits, incorporating it in the diet can help with improved digestive health, healthy metabolism, support bone health, and enhance overall well-being.
Turmeric milk is rich in curcumin, an active compound in turmeric, a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Adding turmeric milk to the diet can help enhance the body’s ability to fight off infections. Additionally, milk is a good source of calcium (hypocalcemia-calcium deficiency disease), vitamins (vitamin D foods & it’s benefits), and minerals, which also play a role in supporting the immune system (tips to boost your immune system).
Turmeric milk is widely consumed given its role in reducing inflammation. Turmeric is packed with components high in anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming turmeric milk can help reduce inflammation in the body and help alleviate symptoms of conditions like arthritis (types, symptoms, causes, risk factor & treatment), muscle soreness, joint pain (why joint pain occurs, symptoms, treatment & prevention), and more.
Golden milk is also associated with promoting brain health (6 ways to improve brain function). Studies reveal that curcumin in turmeric increases levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which helps the brain form new connections and brain cells.
Consuming turmeric milk is also linked to better heart health (step-by-step first aid for heart attack). Several studies reveal that curcumin in turmeric improves endothelial function, which reduces pressure on the heart walls.
Turmeric milk is a go-to solution for digestive issues (tips for better digestive health). Consuming turmeric milk stimulates bile production, which helps speed up digestion and helps reduce symptoms of indigestion (food for indigestion – what to eat & what not).
Some research suggests that turmeric helps improve mood, given that it is high in brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which boosts mood and reduces symptoms of depression.
Turmeric is high in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help bring out a natural glow. Plus, consuming turmeric can help reduce skin redness and inflammation.
Adding turmeric milk to the diet is also associated with reduced risk of cancer (symptoms that can signal the presence of cancer much before diagnosis). Curcumin in turmeric contains anti-cancer properties that inhibit the expansion of certain cancer cells.
Turmeric milk is quite beneficial for bone health (best food for strong bones & joints). Given its high calcium content, it can help strengthen the bones, improve bone density, and prevent diseases affecting the bones.
Consuming warm turmeric milk is known to be associated with better sleep quality. Milk contains tryptophan, an amino acid that the body converts into serotonin and melatonin, both crucial for regulating sleep. Plus, curcumin’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help reduce stress & anxiety, resulting in better sleep quality (know about sleep disorders – it’s types, causes & treatment).
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So far, we’re already aware of the benefits of drinking turmeric milk, but given the number of benefits mentioned and so much more, it might be obvious that it might take a lot of effort to make it. However, making turmeric milk is quite easy and requires minimal effort. Here’s how:
Ingredients for making turmeric milk (haldi doodh):
Instructions for making turmeric milk (haldi doodh):
Turmeric milk can be consumed in the morning to start off the day, in the afternoon, or before going to bed. Though some studies recommend consuming turmeric milk before bedtime, given it improves sleep quality, promotes relaxation, etc.
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Consuming one cup of turmeric milk is considered safe, preferably at night, and can help with,
However, people with any pre-existing medical conditions should ideally consult a healthcare provider before daily consumption of golden milk. Also, moderation is the key, too much turmeric milk can lead to conditions like stomach upset (food for upset stomach), or it can interfere with certain medications.
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Although turmeric milk in moderation is not known to cause any issues, though excess consumption can lead to several side effects, including:
| Side Effects | Description |
| Stomach Upset & Bloating | Too much turmeric can irritate the digestive tract & lead to acidity, gas, etc. |
| Blood Thinning | Turmeric has natural blood thinning properties, excess consumption can increase the risk of bleeding, especially if already on blood-thinning medication. |
| Allergic Reaction (skin allergy) | Though rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions like rashes (common skin rashes in children), hives, etc. |
| Kidney Stones (causes, signs, prevention & treatment) | Turmeric contains oxalates, which may increase the risk of kidney stones in susceptible individuals. |
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Turmeric milk has numerous health benefits, though it might not be suitable for everyone. Certain groups of people should avoid consuming turmeric milk or only consume it after consulting a healthcare provider.
Is haldi milk good for a cough?
Yes, haldi milk is often recommended given its antioxidant and antiviral properties.
Can we drink turmeric milk daily?
Yes, turmeric milk can be consumed daily in moderation. People with pre-existing medical conditions should consult their healthcare provider beforehand.
Is turmeric milk good for colds?
Yes, warm turmeric milk is considered good for colds.
Can we drink turmeric milk during periods?
Yes, drinking turmeric milk during periods can be beneficial.
Does turmeric milk increase testosterone?
Turmeric milk has an active compound called curcumin, which is linked to promoting health benefits for males, though there is no direct relation between turmeric milk and testosterone production.
