Is Warm Milk and Honey Good for Your Stomach?

January 5, 2026 •

4 min read

For generations, a glass of warm milk with honey has been a go-to remedy for sleepless nights, but does this comforting concoction actually help an upset stomach? With honey's prebiotic properties and milk's soothing nature, the combination is often touted for digestive relief, but its effects vary widely depending on individual gut sensitivities.

Quick Summary

This article explores the digestive effects of warm milk and honey, detailing potential benefits for gut health, such as aiding digestion and soothing inflammation, alongside important considerations for individuals with lactose intolerance or IBS. It covers both the positive aspects and potential negatives of this traditional remedy.

Key Points

Prebiotic Effect: Honey contains oligosaccharides that act as prebiotics, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
Soothing and Anti-inflammatory: The warmth of the milk and honey's anti-inflammatory properties can provide comfort for minor stomach discomfort.
Antibacterial Benefits: Some honeys, like Manuka, have antibacterial properties that can fight harmful gut bacteria.
Lactose Intolerance Risk: For those with lactose intolerance, the lactose in milk can cause bloating and digestive upset.
IBS and FODMAPs: Honey's high fructose content can trigger IBS symptoms in sensitive individuals due to its classification as a FODMAP.
Natural Laxative: The combination can have a mild laxative effect, helping with constipation.
Timing is Key: Add honey to lukewarm, not hot, milk to preserve its beneficial enzymes.

The Traditional Belief: Soothing and Comforting

For centuries, warm milk and honey have been a staple home remedy, often linked with relaxation and comfort. Many people associate this drink with easing minor ailments, and its psychological effect can be powerfully soothing. The warmth of the liquid itself can help relax stomach muscles and provide temporary relief from cramps or discomfort. The simple, ritualistic act of sipping a warm beverage can signal the body to calm down, which can have a positive ripple effect on the nervous and digestive systems.

The Science Behind Honey and Milk for Digestion

While the comforting effect is real, there is also some scientific rationale behind the digestive benefits attributed to warm milk and honey.

Honey as a Prebiotic: Honey contains non-digestible oligosaccharides that function as prebiotics. These compounds feed the beneficial bacteria (probiotics) in your gut microbiome, promoting a healthier balance of flora. A balanced gut microbiome is essential for proper digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall gut health.
Antibacterial Properties: Certain types of honey, particularly Manuka honey, possess strong antibacterial properties. This can help fight off harmful bacteria in the stomach and gut, potentially restoring balance and accelerating recovery from infections.
Soothing and Anti-inflammatory: The natural enzymes and anti-inflammatory compounds in honey may help soothe the gut lining, which can be beneficial for indigestion, bloating, and cramps.
Natural Laxative: Honey acts as a mild laxative, which, combined with the warmth of milk, can aid in regularizing bowel movements and alleviating constipation.

When the Remedy Backfires: Potential Drawbacks

Despite the potential benefits, warm milk and honey is not a cure-all for everyone. For some, it can exacerbate stomach issues rather than relieve them.

Lactose Intolerance: This is one of the most common issues. Many adults have a reduced ability to digest lactose, the natural sugar in milk. In these individuals, milk can cause bloating, gas, cramps, and diarrhea, completely negating any soothing effect. The added sugar from honey can sometimes worsen these symptoms.
High Fructose Content: Honey is a high-fructose food, which is a type of FODMAP. For people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) who are sensitive to FODMAPs, the fructose in honey can ferment in the gut, leading to increased gas, bloating, and abdominal pain.
Blood Sugar Spike: The sugars in both honey and milk can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar, which can impact some individuals' digestive comfort and is a concern for those managing diabetes.
Overconsumption: Like any food, consuming milk and honey in excess can be problematic. Both are calorie-dense and overconsumption can lead to weight gain, while the sugar content can contribute to other negative health effects.

Comparing Warm Milk and Honey with Alternative Remedies


Feature	Warm Milk and Honey	Herbal Tea (e.g., Chamomile, Peppermint)	Water with Lemon or Ginger	Probiotic-Rich Yogurt
Primary Digestive Benefit	Prebiotic effect from honey, soothing comfort from warmth.	Calming and anti-inflammatory properties.	Aids digestion, reduces bloating, and flushes toxins.	Replenishes beneficial gut bacteria.
Potential for Side Effects	High risk for lactose-intolerant or IBS individuals; high sugar content.	Generally low risk, though some herbs can cause reactions.	Safe for most, but acid may irritate sensitive stomachs.	Avoid for severe lactose intolerance; can contain added sugar.
Suitability for Specific Issues	Best for mild constipation or general discomfort if no lactose/FODMAP sensitivity.	Excellent for bloating, gas, and stomach cramps.	Good for indigestion, detoxification, and hydration.	Ideal for restoring gut flora after antibiotics or with a balanced gut.
Calorie Content	Higher due to milk fat and honey sugars.	Negligible calories.	Negligible calories.	Varies based on sugar and fat content.

How to Safely Incorporate Warm Milk and Honey

If you want to enjoy the potential benefits without the risk of digestive upset, there are several precautions to take.

Consider Alternatives for Intolerance

For those who are lactose intolerant or have a milk protein allergy, the first step is to substitute cow's milk with a plant-based alternative. Almond, soy, or oat milk can provide the warm, comforting base without the lactose. Combining honey with herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, can offer a soothing effect without the dairy.

Modify the Preparation

Timing and temperature are important. Avoid adding honey to very hot milk, as this can destroy some of its beneficial enzymes. Wait for the milk to cool slightly to a lukewarm temperature before stirring in the honey. Drinking it slowly, rather than gulping it down, can also help your digestive system process it more comfortably.

Start Small and Listen to Your Body

Begin with a small amount to see how your body reacts. Since digestive sensitivities vary greatly, keeping a food diary can help you identify if warm milk and honey, or its individual components, are a trigger for your symptoms. For those with IBS, especially, a low-FODMAP diet might be necessary, and honey should be approached with caution or avoided entirely.

Conclusion

Warm milk and honey can be a soothing and potentially beneficial remedy for some digestive issues, thanks to honey's prebiotic and antibacterial properties, combined with the psychological comfort of a warm beverage. However, it is not a universal solution. For individuals with lactose intolerance, IBS, or high sugar sensitivity, this remedy can cause more harm than good, leading to increased bloating, gas, and discomfort. Evaluating your personal digestive health and considering alternatives, such as plant-based milks or herbal teas, are crucial steps before making this a regular part of your routine. Always listen to your body and consult a healthcare professional if you have persistent or severe digestive problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Warm milk and honey might help reduce bloating for some by acting as a mild laxative and soothing the gut lining. However, if you are lactose intolerant or have a sensitivity to the fructose in honey, it can actually cause more bloating.

There is mixed evidence on this. Some believe honey's viscous texture may coat the esophagus and reduce reflux symptoms. However, others find that the high sugar content can trigger or worsen acid reflux.

It is generally not recommended for individuals with IBS. Honey is high in fructose (a FODMAP), which can ferment in the gut and worsen symptoms like gas and bloating.

Yes, adding honey to very hot milk can destroy some of its beneficial enzymes. It is best to wait for the milk to cool to a lukewarm temperature before adding the honey to preserve its properties.

Lactose-intolerant individuals can use plant-based milk alternatives, such as almond, soy, or oat milk, as a base. Combining honey with herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint also offers a soothing effect.

Honey acts as a prebiotic, containing oligosaccharides that feed and promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria. This can help create a healthier and more balanced gut microbiome.

Overconsumption can lead to weight gain due to high calorie and sugar content. It can also cause digestive discomfort for those with sensitivities and raise blood sugar levels, which is a concern for diabetics.