AYUSH ministry suggests milk with sugar to combat heatwave: Experts have a problem

With temperatures soaring across India, heatwaves are becoming more dangerous than ever. From dehydration and dizziness to fatigue, muscle cramps, headaches, and gastric issues, extreme heat can put serious stress on the body, especially among children, women, elderly individuals, and people who spend long hours outdoors.

Amid this, the AYUSH Ministry recently issued a public health advisory recommending several preventive measures to protect against heat-related illnesses.

Among the suggestions, one recommendation sparked widespread curiosity about drinking milk with added sugar. While many health experts usually advise limiting sugar intake, the Ministry stated that this simple drink can help maintain hydration and energy levels during periods of intense heat.

The recommendation has triggered discussions among nutritionists and doctors, with some supporting it as a traditional and accessible remedy, while others caution that it may not suit everyone. Experts say the combination can provide quick energy and important nutrients, but it should not replace proper hydration practices like drinking water and electrolyte-rich fluids.

WHY MILK WITH SUGAR MAY HELP DURING HEATWAVES

According to experts, heat exposure can cause the body to lose fluids and essential minerals through excessive sweating. This can leave people feeling weak, dehydrated, and exhausted.

Dr Samiksha Kalra, Dietitian and Lactation Consultant at Madhukar Rainbow Children's Hospital, explained that the combination of milk and sugar may offer temporary relief during extreme weather conditions.

“During heatwaves, women and children are particularly vulnerable to dehydration, fatigue, and heat-related weakness because their bodies may lose fluids and energy more quickly. The combination of milk and sugar can provide temporary relief by offering hydration, quick energy, and essential nutrients,” said Dr Kalra.

She explained that milk contains water, calcium, potassium, and proteins that help maintain fluid balance and support energy levels, while sugar provides instant glucose that may help reduce tiredness caused by excessive heat and sweating.

“For children, especially those who are active outdoors, this combination may help restore energy levels. In women, particularly pregnant or breastfeeding mothers, it may help reduce fatigue and support nutritional needs during extreme heat,” she added.

Experts also say chilled milk may create a soothing and cooling effect on the body during hot weather.

AYURVEDIC LOGIC BEHIND THE RECOMMENDATION

Nutritionist Deepta Nagpal said the recommendation is deeply rooted in Ayurvedic principles.

“AYUSH Ministry's recommendation most likely comes from Ayurvedic tradition, where milk is considered a ‘cooling’ food that pacifies Pitta dosha, the body's heat energy. Adding sugar, particularly mishri or unrefined sugar, is believed to enhance this cooling effect and provide instant energy,” she explained.

From a modern nutrition perspective, she noted that milk is nearly 87 per cent water and also contains electrolytes like sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, all of which are lost through sweat during extreme heat.

“Science does give some backing to the sugar component as well. Glucose aids intestinal absorption of sodium and water through the SGLT-1 transporter mechanism, which is the same principle behind ORS,” Nagpal said.

IS IT SUITABLE FOR EVERYONE?

While experts agree that milk with sugar can help some individuals, they warn that it should not be considered a universal solution.

Dr Kalra cautioned that women with diabetes, gestational diabetes, PCOS, obesity, or digestive sensitivities should avoid excessive sugar intake. Similarly, children who are lactose intolerant may experience bloating or stomach discomfort after consuming milk in hot weather.

Nagpal also pointed out that full-fat milk may feel heavy on the stomach during summer and could worsen digestive discomfort in some individuals.

“People who are lactose intolerant or have IBS and SIBO could experience bloating and fluid loss through diarrhoea, which is the opposite of the intended effect,” she said.

She added that while the advice is not harmful for healthy adults, it should not be projected as a medical solution for dehydration.

“For actual dehydration risk, ORS, coconut water, salted lemon water, ragi ambali, kanji, and buttermilk are better-evidenced choices. Milk with sugar is more of a traditional comfort beverage than a clinical rehydration strategy,” Nagpal explained.

BETTER HYDRATION ALTERNATIVES DURING SUMMER

Experts recommend focusing on a balanced hydration strategy during heatwaves rather than depending on a single drink.

Some healthier alternatives include:

• Buttermilk and lassi

• Coconut water

• Lemon water with salt and sugar

• Homemade electrolyte drinks

• Fresh fruit smoothies without added sugar

• Seasonal fruits like watermelon, muskmelon, cucumber, and oranges

These foods and drinks help replenish fluids, electrolytes, and essential nutrients naturally.

Nagpal also suggested traditional cooling combinations like gulkand milk for children and highly active individuals, but stressed that “one size doesn’t fit all.”

Experts agree that milk with sugar can be consumed in moderation by healthy individuals as part of a balanced summer diet. However, it should not replace water, ORS, or other proven hydration methods during severe heatwaves.

The larger focus, doctors say, should remain on staying hydrated throughout the day, avoiding direct sun exposure during peak hours, wearing light cotton clothing, and eating water-rich seasonal foods to prevent dehydration before it becomes serious.