Golden Milk is a traditional Ayurvedic remedy for certain diseases or health benefits. It is a delightful drink primarily made of milk blended with turmeric. These ingredients provide powerful antioxidants, anti-inflammatory action, and a slew of benefits. Nonetheless, Golden Turmeric Milk does have a few potential risks worth mentioning. Let us see the benefits, potential risk factors, and the best way to enjoy Golden Milk.
Nutrition Information
Table 1: Composition of Turmeric
|
Composition |
(%) |
|
Protein |
6.3 |
|
Fat |
5.1 |
|
Minerals |
3.5 |
|
Carbohydrates |
69.4 |
|
Moisture |
13.1 |
|
Essential oil |
5.8 |
Table 2: Composition of Milk
|
Composition |
(%) |
|
Protein |
3.2–3.4 |
|
Fat |
3.3–4.0 |
|
Minerals (Ash) |
0.7–0.8 |
|
Water |
87–88 |
|
Lactose |
4.6–5.0 |
Health Benefits of Turmeric Milk
Below are the benefits of drinking turmeric milk
Reduces Inflammation
Turmeric milk is effective against inflammation and alleviates pain and swelling from arthritis and joint issues. The active element in turmeric, curcumin, suppresses pathways of inflammation, which in turn reduces the chances of chronic diseases.
In addition, milk improves the absorption of curcumin by turmeric. It adds useful proteins, fats, and vitamins that facilitate tissue healing and thus can soothe acid reflux and gastritis.
Boosts Immunity
Turmeric has strong antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that undoubtedly boost your immune system naturally. Curcumin, a constituent of turmeric, activates the immune cells to combat infection from colds, flu, and respiratory diseases.
Milk adds essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin D, zinc, and selenium, which enhance immunity. Together, turmeric and milk help prevent seasonal illnesses and speed up recovery.
Supports Bone Health
Milk is a rich source of calcium, vitamin D, and proteins. It strengthens bones and lowers the chance of fracture occurrence. It also enables bones and muscles to repair themselves for long-term skeletal health.
Turmeric protects bones and joints due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant nature. Curcumin, a biological component of turmeric, promotes the formation of new bones, hinders the loss of existing bones, and improves the symptoms of arthritis. Hence, turmeric milk is considered wonderful for keeping one's bones healthy.
Aids Liver Detoxification
Turmeric increases bile production for fat breakdown and toxin removal in the liver, promoting a healthy liver. It also prevents alcohol and improper diet-caused liver cell damage.
Milk contains proteins, vitamins, and minerals that enable liver cell repair. Turmeric in conjunction with milk induces liver detoxification and enhances general metabolic functions.
Protects Heart Health
Curcumin reduces the bad cholesterol and increases the good cholesterol while improving blood circulation to combat heart disease. It is beneficial against hypertension and blocked arteries.
In the case of milk, calcium and potassium help to reduce blood pressure and strengthen the heart muscle. Thus, turmeric milk is heart-friendly because it reduces inflammation and increase circulation.
Regulates Blood Sugar
By enhancing insulin sensitivity and mitigating blood sugar spikes, turmeric milk effectively controls diabetes. Curcumin lowers inflammatory markers associated with metabolic disorders, thus preventing complications arising due to diabetes.
Proteins and good fats provided by milk can stabilize sugar levels. Drinking turmeric milk regularly may help in glucose metabolism and prevent spikes in sugar levels.
Slows Aging
Turmeric Milk, which is an anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer agent combination, is help to inhibit oxidative stress, hence retarding aging-related diseases like arthritis or heart disease. It induces pro-longevity genes for a greater health benefit.
This combination supports aging, stimulating muscle strength, bone density, and cognitive function. Regular intake of turmeric milk promotes mobility, mental clarity, and immune system resilience.
Protects Brain Function
Turmeric might help stop neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's by reducing inflammation of the brain and protecting neurons. Curcumin is also helpful in improving memory and cognitive functions.
Milk is an important source of essential amino acids, calcium, and vitamin B12 which all support the brain. Turmeric combined with milk can do wonders in memory enhancement, mental clarity, and overall brain function.
Fights Viruses
However, Golden Milk has an antiviral performance by hindering replication of viruses, and thus fighting flu, hepatitis, and respiratory-viral infection. Besides, it also helps in an improved immune response against viral threats.
It enhances immune defense by supplying proteins, vitamins, and minerals that support overall immunity. Regularly drinking turmeric milk can reduce the risk of viral illnesses and speed up recovery.
Potential Risks of Golden or Turmeric Milk
1. May Cause Digestive Issues - Excessive turmeric consumption can lead to stomach upset, bloating, or acid reflux in some individuals.
2. Can Interfere with Medications - Curcumin can interact with blood thinners, diabetes medications, and blood pressure drugs, altering their effectiveness.
3. Risk of Kidney Stones - Turmeric contains oxalates, which may increase the risk of kidney stone formation, especially in people prone to them.
4. May Lower Blood Sugar Too Much - For individuals on diabetes medication, golden milk may further reduce blood sugar levels, leading to hypoglycemia.
5. Could Cause Allergic Reactions - Some individuals may be allergic to turmeric or other spices used in golden milk, causing skin rashes, nausea, or breathing difficulties.
How to Consume Golden Milk?
Golden milk is also called turmeric milk. It’s a very good beverage, especially if you’re sick. It consists of milk, turmeric and spices, and is a good option for people who want to avoid caffeine or coffee or maybe enjoy a unique flavor.
This golden milk can be consumed for breakfast or after dinner. Turmeric milk is more than just a trendy beverage, the distinctive yellow turmeric it contains is also thought to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Conclusion
Turmeric milk is an ancient Ayurvedic drink that has been used for centuries as a traditional medicine. It can be easily prepared at home using commonly available spices. This drink ensures a good night's sleep when consumed before bedtime. Of its many potential health benefits, the most notable are its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cognitive functions. Thus, turmeric milk is an elixir that can help improve overall health and well-being, making it a great option for those looking for ways to improve their health.
FAQ’s
Q1. Can diabetic patients drink turmeric milk at night?
Ans. Yes, turmeric milk can be taken by diabetic patients as it can reduce blood sugar levels by enhancing insulin sensitivity.
Q2. Is turmeric good for diabetic neuropathy?
Ans. Yes, curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, shows promise in managing diabetic neuropathy due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, potentially mitigating pain and nerve damage.
Q3. Can I take turmeric if I am diabetic?
Ans. Yes, turmeric, particularly its active compound curcumin, offers benefits for people with diabetes, including potentially improving blood sugar levels and reducing inflammation, but it's crucial to discuss turmeric supplementation with a healthcare professional, especially if you're taking diabetes medications.
References:
[1] https://www.researchgate.net/publication/360164046_Turmeric_Milk_An_Elixir
[6] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8871262/
