AYUSH Ministry Suggests Milk with Sugar to Combat Heatwave
Amid intense heatwave conditions sweeping across several parts of India, the Ministry of AYUSH has issued a public advisory recommending traditional dietary practices to help people stay hydrated and energized. Among the suggestions, the ministry has advised consuming milk with added sugar as part of a cooling and energy-replenishing diet during extreme temperatures.
The advisory, which also includes beverages like coconut water, buttermilk, lemon juice, and sattu drinks, aims to promote hydration and prevent heat-related illnesses such as dehydration and heatstroke. Officials stated that easily digestible foods and natural cooling ingredients can help the body maintain temperature balance during severe heat conditions.
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However, the recommendation of milk with sugar has sparked debate among health experts. Some nutritionists argue that while milk provides protein and electrolytes, adding sugar may not be ideal during extreme heat, especially for people with diabetes or those trying to avoid excess calorie intake. They suggest that natural hydration options like plain water, coconut water, and unsweetened buttermilk may be more effective and safer alternatives.
Critics also point out that scientific evidence supporting sugar-added milk as a heat protection strategy is limited. Instead, they emphasize established public health guidance such as maintaining electrolyte balance, avoiding outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours, and consuming water-rich fruits like watermelon and cucumber.
On the other hand, supporters of traditional systems argue that AYUSH recommendations are rooted in long-standing Indian dietary practices, where milk-based drinks have historically been used to restore energy in harsh summer conditions.
As temperatures continue to rise across northern and central India, health authorities are urging people to prioritize hydration, avoid heavy meals, and take precautions to prevent heat exhaustion. The debate highlights the ongoing tension between traditional remedies and modern nutritional science in public health advisories.
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