Mango With Milk Side Effects

Question

I recently started drinking mango milkshakes because it’s mango season, and I thought it would be a fun way to enjoy them. But then a friend told me that mixing mango with milk side effects can be pretty bad according to Ayurveda. Is that true? I’ve been fine so far, but now I’m worried.

They said mango with milk side effects might include indigestion or even skin problems. Is it because the two have opposite energies or something? I know Ayurveda says mango is heating, but what about milk? Is that why it’s a bad combination?

Also, if mango with milk side effects are real, why do people still drink mango milkshakes without problems? Are there ways to make it safer, like adding spices or choosing certain types of milk?

I’ve been drinking mango milkshakes about 3 times a week. Should I stop? What are some signs that mango with milk side effects are affecting me? Is it something immediate like bloating, or could it be long-term issues like acne or gut problems?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

In Ayurveda, combining mango with milk is often considered unfavorable because the two are thought to have opposing qualities that can disrupt digestion and balance the doshas.

Why it's considered problematic:
Mango is heating and has a strong, stimulating effect on the body, which can increase pitta dosha (heat, fire).
Milk, on the other hand, is cooling and tends to be heavy and moist, which is good for vata but can aggravate kapha.
When mixed, their contrasting energies can lead to digestive imbalance, such as indigestion, bloating, and gas. This is because the heating mango can disrupt the cooling nature of milk, making digestion difficult.
Mango with Milk Side Effects:
Immediate effects might include indigestion, bloating, or a heavy feeling in the stomach.
Long-term effects could include skin issues like acne, rashes, or gut problems due to the disturbance in digestion and the accumulation of toxins (ama).
Why do people still drink it?
Some people have stronger digestive fire (agni) and can handle this combination without any issues.
The combination might also be seasonal, where the cooling effect of milk might balance out the heating effect of mango during hot summer months when digestive fire is stronger.
How to make it safer:
Spices like cardamom or saffron can help balance the effects of this combination and improve digestion.
If you’re using milk, opt for warm milk rather than cold milk, as warm milk is easier to digest and less likely to create imbalance.
Avoid overconsumption of this combination, especially if you have a pitta tendency or digestive issues.
Should you stop drinking it?
If you feel fine after drinking mango milkshakes and don’t experience any digestive issues, you can likely continue, but consume in moderation.
If you start noticing indigestion, bloating, or skin breakouts, it might be a sign that the combination is affecting your digestion, and you should reconsider or reduce the frequency.
Conclusion:
Listen to your body and pay attention to any signs of discomfort. If you don’t experience any negative effects, drinking mango milkshakes in moderation is probably fine, but if you do feel discomfort, you may want to try a different approach or consume them less often.

Dr. Ayush Varma · Answer

Ah, the classic debate! Mango with milk is a common topic, especially in Ayurveda. Your friend isn't entirely off the mark. Mixing mango and milk is traditionally seen as potentially problematic in Ayurveda. Mango is considered "ushna" (heating), while milk is typically "shita" (cooling). This clash in qualities can sometimes create issues like indigestion or even skin problems as you've heard.

But here's the thing, many people enjoy mango milkshakes without any issues, and the world keeps turning. You mentioned drinking it 3 times a week and feeling fine, right? Sometimes it's about individual tolerance and prakriti (body constitution). Some people can handle such combinations better than others.

However, to make it generally safer (or let's say more balanced) in Ayurvedic terms, consider a few tweaks. Add a pinch of cardamom or a bit of ginger to your shake. These spices help in digestion, potentially mitigating any unwanted effects. Also, consuming it during the day – when your digestive fire is strongest – might be better than having it at night.

If you start noticing immediate discomfort like bloating, gas, or indigestion, it might be a sign to slow down on the shakes. Long-term issues like skin problems (maybe acne) could develop if the imbalance continues. Everyone's sensitivity is different! If you do cut back, notice if any changes happen in your body or skin.

If you're feeling really uneasy about the side effects, perhaps try having mango and milk separately. Enjoy the fruit first, wait for a bit, then have some warm milk later. Keeps things simple and might be better if you want to be cautious.

No hard and fast rules always work because we're all unique mixes of doshas and energies. Trust what your body's telling you too!

Mango With Milk Side Effects - #5340

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