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| - Last Updated on November 4, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that drinking milk with jaggery can improve digestion and cure anaemia. After fact checking, we found out this claim is mostly false.
The Claim
An Instagram post suggests drinking milk with jaggery before going to bed at night strengthens the digestive system, cures anaemia, and relieves gastric issues.
Fact Check
Can milk with jaggery really strengthen digestion?
Not entirely. Milk and jaggery may offer some minor digestive benefits, but they are not effective digestive aids on their own.
- Milk provides proteins, fats, and calcium but doesn’t specifically support digestion. In fact, it can cause bloating and discomfort in those who are lactose intolerant, as some studies show.
- Jaggery has traditionally been used to help in digestion. However, it contains almost no fibre, which limits its ability to genuinely improve digestive health. Scientific evidence on jaggery’s digestive benefits is not so strong.
While milk with jaggery might be a comforting drink, it is unlikely to significantly improve digestion. For digestive health, a balanced diet, regular hydration, and healthy lifestyle choices are far more effective.
Can milk with jaggery cure anaemia?
No, milk with jaggery cannot cure anaemia. Although jaggery contains iron, it is insufficient for treating anaemia. Some evidence says it can help in preventing anaemia.
- Anaemia treatment requires not only iron but also vitamin B12, folic acid, and proteins, which support the formation of healthy blood cells.
- The amount of iron in jaggery that we generally eat is low to have a substantial impact on anaemia (iron content is 10-13 mg in 100 grams of jaggery, but we generally eat much less).
- Jaggery is essentially sugar, so while it contains some iron, it’s not enough to treat anaemia. Excessive intake may increase the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Additionally, calcium in milk can interfere with iron absorption, reducing its benefits further.
Furthermore, certain types of anaemia, like Pernicious anaemia, Aplastic anaemia, Congenital Dyserythropoietic anaemia (CDA), Fanconi anaemia, Diamond-Blackfan anaemia, and Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria, are incurable. Treatment for these types involves lifelong management—often including blood transfusions, iron chelation, or bone marrow transplants. Relying on milk and jaggery as a “cure” could delay necessary treatment, potentially worsening the condition. In cases of anaemia, doctors recommend iron-rich foods (like leafy greens, legumes, and lean meats) and medical supplements when needed.
We reached out to Dr Almas Fatma, MBBS, Diploma in Family Medicine, PG in Digital Health, General Physician from Navi Mumbai, for her expertise on milk and jaggery for anaemia cure. She says, “Milk with jaggery offers some nutritional benefits but is not a cure for anemia. Anemia often results from iron deficiency, and while jaggery contains non-heme iron, it’s not easily absorbed by the body. The calcium in milk can also inhibit iron absorption, making this combination ineffective for those needing easily absorbed iron from animal sources or supplements.”
Dr Fatma adds, “Jaggery can stimulate digestion, but milk may cause bloating, especially in those who are lactose intolerant, and might worsen gastric issues for some people. While they provide some nutrients, they aren’t a solution for anemia. If you have anemia, consult a doctor and focus on a balanced iron-rich diet and supplements if needed.”
We got in touch with Dr Swati Dave PhD in Food and Nutrition, for her expert insights on jaggery and milk for anaemia cure. She says, “Milk with jaggery is often seen as a comforting drink, but it’s not a cure for anaemia. While jaggery does contain iron, the amount is too small to correct iron deficiency on its own. Iron from plant-based sources also doesn’t absorb as well as iron from animal foods. Plus, when mixed with milk, calcium can actually compete with iron for absorption, making it even less effective. To treat or prevent anaemia, a balanced diet rich in iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid is essential. Foods like leafy greens, lentils, lean meats, and fortified cereals provide more robust support. If anaemia persists, consulting a healthcare professional is important to find the right treatment.”
Interestingly, some people also suggest copper water and curry leaves for anaemia cure. But, this home remedy holds no scientific evidence.
Does milk with jaggery relieve gastric issues?
Not exactly. Traditionally, jaggery has been used for mild laxative effects, but combining it with milk may not help with gastric relief for everyone.
- Jaggery can help relieve mild digestive issues, like constipation, by promoting bowel movements, and it’s often considered a healthier alternative to sugar. But is jaggery really safer and better? It still has a high calorie count, so be careful.
- For some, milk may worsen gastric symptoms, especially in those with lactose intolerance, potentially causing bloating, cramps, and diarrhoea.
- In Ayurveda, milk with jaggery is sometimes recommended as a nourishing drink. However, there’s no solid evidence that it effectively relieves gastric issues.
For lasting relief from gastric discomfort, focus on a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and seeking medical advice rather than relying on this combination.
Is drinking milk with jaggery at night safe?
Generally, yes—but it may not suit everyone.
- Milk contains tryptophan, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and may support sleep.
- However, people with lactose intolerance or digestive sensitivity may experience discomfort.
For those who tolerate it well, milk with jaggery can be a comforting evening drink. Still, if it causes digestive discomfort, it’s best to avoid it at night.
We connected with Shruti K Bhardwaj, Chief Clinical Nutritionist at Zydus Hospital in Ahmedabad, to get her expert take on the safety of milk and jaggery. She says, “Drinking milk with jaggery at night can be a soothing habit for many. Milk contains tryptophan, which promotes relaxation and may also help in sleep, while jaggery adds a touch of natural sweetness. However, it’s essential to listen to your body. For those with lactose intolerance or digestive sensitivities, this combination might cause discomfort, such as bloating or cramps. It’s all about balance; if you find this drink comforting and have no adverse effects, it can be a delightful addition to your night-time routine. Just remember, moderation is key!”
THIP Media Take
The claim that drinking milk with jaggery can cure anaemia, strengthen digestion, and relieve gastric problems is mostly false. While this combination may be nutritious and comforting, it is not a substitute for medical treatment or a balanced diet.
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