Sleep is an important part of having a healthy lifestyle. Getting enough restful sleep every night is essential for both physical and mental well-being.
Unfortunately, many people struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep, and turn to various remedies to help them drift off.
One of the most popular remedies for sleeplessness is Horlicks, a malted milk drink that has been around since the late 19th century.
Does Horlicks make you sleepy?
Drinking a warm, familiar beverage like Horlicks may contribute to a calming pre-sleep routine, helping some people unwind.
However, while it might aid relaxation, there’s no direct scientific evidence that Horlicks causes sleepiness. Instead, its effects are more about creating a soothing bedtime ritual that may support a natural sleep process, rather than inducing drowsiness directly.
Is it healthy to drink Horlicks?
Horlicks is frequently promoted as a drink to have before bed to promote better sleep, but many people are unsure if it’s really healthy to consume or not.
Let’s start by looking at Horlicks’ ingredients. Malted barley, wheat, milk powder, and a variety of vitamins and minerals are all included in Horlicks. Sugar or other sweeteners are frequently used to sweeten food.
One potential benefit of Horlicks is that it is a good source of vitamins and minerals. For example, a single serving of Horlicks can provide a significant amount of calcium, iron, and vitamin D, which are important nutrients for maintaining strong bones and overall health.
However, Horlicks is also high in sugar and calories, which can be a concern for people trying to maintain a healthy diet.
A single serving of Horlicks can contain up to 20 grams of sugar.
Be aware that adults should not consume more than 30 grams of sugar per day (or approximately 7 sugar cubes), otherwise this can lead to a range of a range of health problems, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
In addition, a Horlicks malted drink may contain additives such as artificial flavors and colors, which may be a concern for some people. While these additives are generally considered safe in small amounts, some people prefer to avoid them altogether.
What are the benefits of drinking Horlicks?
Horlicks may or may not have health benefits, however there are some possible benefits to consuming this well-known malted milk beverage.
The following are some potential advantages of consuming Horlicks:
1. Promotes relaxation
One of the primary benefits of Horlicks is that it may help promote relaxation. The warm milk and malted barley in Horlicks can help soothe the nerves and calm the mind, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
Tip: Check out our blog post on How Reading Before Bed Can Help with Relaxation.
2. Contains critical nutrients
Horlicks is a good source of calcium, iron, and vitamin D, among other essential elements. These vitamins and minerals are crucial for sustaining healthy blood cells, strong bones, and general wellbeing.
3. May boost energy and stamina
Horlicks is also promoted as a beverage that might assist increase stamina and energy. Horlicks’ malted barley contains a lot of complex carbs that can give you a steady energy boost all day long.
4. Can be a comforting drink
For many people, drinking Horlicks is a comforting and nostalgic experience. The warm, creamy drink can be a soothing and satisfying way to unwind after a long day, or a comforting drink to enjoy before bed.
However, remember that Horlicks may not have the same impact on everyone when it comes to aiding sleep or boosting energy. For some people, the product’s high sugar and calorie content may exceed any potential advantages.
Horlicks consumption is ultimately a matter of personal preference and depends on your specific health requirements.
Horlicks should be consumed in moderation as part of a nutritious and balanced diet if you’re thinking about doing so. If you’re worried about how ingesting Horlicks will affect your health, be sure to talk to your doctor.
Tip: If you’re not getting enough sleep, check out our blog post “Is 5 Hours of Sleep Enough“?
How much Horlicks should you drink?
While drinking Horlicks can be a comforting and delicious experience, it is important to remember that moderation is key.
Here are some guidelines to help you determine how much Horlicks you should drink:
- Follow the recommended serving size: The recommended serving size for Horlicks is typically one to two tablespoons of powder per cup of milk or water. It is important to follow these guidelines and not exceed the recommended serving size, as this can lead to consuming excess calories and sugar.
- Consider your overall calorie and sugar intake: Horlicks contains a significant amount of calories and sugar, so it is important to consider your overall calorie and sugar intake when incorporating it into your diet. If you are trying to maintain a healthy weight or manage a medical condition like diabetes, you may want to limit your Horlicks consumption or choose a lower-calorie, sugar-free alternative.
- Consult with your healthcare provider: If you have any concerns about the health effects of drinking Horlicks, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide personaliсed guidance on how much Horlicks is safe for you to drink, based on your individual health needs and dietary goals.
Alternatives to drinking Horlicks before bedtime:
If you’re looking for alternatives to Horlicks before bed, there are several soothing options to help unwind:
- Warm milk is a classic choice, also containing tryptophan, which may promote relaxation.
- Herbal teas like chamomile, valerian root, and lavender are caffeine-free and renowned for their calming effects.
- Golden milk, made with turmeric, milk, and spices, offers warmth and a unique flavour.
- For those seeking plant-based options, almond or oat milk can be a good base for a comforting, warm drink.
Alternatively, a small snack rich in complex carbohydrates, such as a banana or whole-grain toast, may help support a restful night’s sleep.
Does Horlicks contain protein?
Protein is present in Horlicks, albeit the exact amount depends on the formulation. The main source of protein in Horlicks is the milk powder used to make the beverage, which is a good supply of this crucial nutrient.
Around 2-3 grammes of protein make up a standard Horlicks meal (one to two tablespoons of powder mixed with milk or water), which is a negligible quantity in comparison to other protein-rich foods like meat, eggs, or legumes.
Even yet, folks who might not be getting enough protein in their diets may still benefit from this protein content.
Horlicks should be used as a supplement to a balanced and varied diet; it should not be used as the sole source of protein.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Horlicks is a popular and tasty drink that has been enjoyed by people around the world for generations.
While it may not be a magical cure-all for insomnia, there is some evidence to suggest that Horlicks may help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
Additionally, Horlicks contains a range of beneficial vitamins and minerals, making it a potentially nutritious addition to your diet.
However, it is important to remember that Horlicks should be consumed in moderation, and as part of a balanced and healthy diet.
