Can milk and honey be consumed together?

May 28, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Hello doctor, I've been having trouble sleeping lately. I heard that drinking a cup of milk with honey before bedtime can help with sleep, so I wanted to give it a try. However, my husband is concerned that combining these two foods might cause adverse reactions, since we've never paired them before. I'd like to ask, is it safe to consume milk and honey together?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yu Yongchao

Under normal circumstances, milk and honey can be consumed together.

Milk is rich in protein, calcium, phosphorus, and other nutrients, while honey mainly contains glucose and fructose, along with vitamins, minerals, and active substances such as enzymes. These components do not cause harmful chemical reactions when combined; instead, they complement each other nutritionally. The calcium in milk helps stabilize mood, while the glucose in honey helps regulate nervous system function, and consuming them together may have a synergistic effect on promoting sleep. In general, most people can safely consume milk and honey together, which can enhance flavor and nutritional value.

However, individual differences should be considered. People with diabetes or poor blood sugar control should be cautious about honey's high sugar content, to avoid causing blood sugar fluctuations. Additionally, individuals with allergies should be cautious, as honey may contain pollen, which sometimes causes allergic reactions. People with high blood sugar or diabetes should consume it cautiously and preferably consult a doctor first, making decisions based on their individual blood sugar control conditions regarding whether and how much to consume.