Drinking Milk Before Bed Not Beneficial for Everyone, Experts Warn

Karachi: Health experts have warned that drinking milk before going to sleep may not be beneficial for everyone, as not all bodies digest milk in the same way.

Milk is widely considered a healthy food around the world, and many people believe that drinking it at night helps promote better sleep. However, medical experts say some individuals may experience digestive issues after consuming milk, especially before bedtime.

According to experts, milk is naturally rich in protein, calcium, and essential vitamins such as vitamins A, B2, and B12, which is why it is often considered an important part of a balanced diet.

Drinking warm milk in winter and cold milk in summer is a common habit, but some people may experience indigestion, gas, or bloating after consuming milk at night.

Gastroenterologist Dr. Ply M. Menkam from California in the United States explained that one major reason for this is a condition known as lactose intolerance. Milk contains a natural sugar called lactose, which requires an enzyme called lactase to be properly digested. This enzyme is produced in the small intestine.

According to Dr. Menkam, the body’s production of lactase often begins to decline with age, particularly after the age of 30. When the enzyme is not present in sufficient amounts, lactose cannot be properly digested and moves into the large intestine, where bacteria break it down. This process can lead to symptoms such as gas, stomach pain, and indigestion.

Experts also note that drinking milk before bedtime may increase insulin levels in some individuals because the carbohydrates present in milk can affect the body’s natural biological rhythms. This may disrupt sleep patterns for certain people.

Medical professionals advise that individuals who frequently experience gas or digestive discomfort after drinking milk should consider reducing dairy consumption or switching to lactose-free milk products.