The Ultimate Guide: How many spoons of Horlicks per day?

October 25, 2025 •

3 min read

With over 150 years as a popular nutritional drink, Horlicks has been a household name for generations. However, the number of spoons of Horlicks per day can vary significantly based on the specific variant and the age or health needs of the person consuming it.

Quick Summary

The ideal daily serving of Horlicks depends on the specific product (e.g., Classic, Women's Plus, Junior). Recommended amounts, typically ranging from 2 to 3 heaped spoonfuls, differ by variant and intended consumer. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for optimal nutritional benefits.

Key Points

Check the Variant: Serving sizes differ significantly across Horlicks products, from Classic to Women's Plus and Junior.
Classic Serving: A standard serving of Classic Malt is typically 3 heaped teaspoons (27g) mixed with 200ml of milk or water.
Specialized Variants: Horlicks for women, children, and diabetics have unique serving recommendations, often differing in frequency and quantity.
Moderation is Key: Excessive consumption can lead to high sugar intake and weight gain, so stick to the recommended amounts.
Consult a Professional: Individuals with specific health concerns like diabetes should consult a doctor or nutritionist before regular consumption.
Preparation Matters: Horlicks can be mixed with hot or cold milk or water, though it dissolves best in hot liquid.
Healthy Diet First: Remember that Horlicks is a supplement and should not replace nutrient-dense, whole foods in a balanced diet.

The recommended daily intake of Horlicks is not a one-size-fits-all rule but depends on the specific product variant formulated for different nutritional needs and age groups. Adhering to these guidelines ensures you receive the intended benefits without excessive sugar or calorie intake. The manufacturer provides clear instructions for each version, typically measured in heaped or levelled spoonfuls.

Recommended Daily Serving Sizes by Horlicks Variant

Classic Malt Horlicks

For the classic version, which is suitable for most family members, the standard recommendation is straightforward.

Serving Size: Add 3 heaped teaspoons (approximately 27g) of Classic Malt Horlicks powder.
Preparation: Stir the powder briskly into 200ml of hot or cold milk or water until it fully dissolves.
Frequency: This can be enjoyed once or twice daily as part of a balanced diet.

Horlicks Women's Plus

Tailored for the nutritional requirements of women aged 19-50, this variant focuses on bone health.

Serving Size: Use 3 heaped spoonfuls (approximately 30g).
Preparation: Add the powder to 200ml of hot or cold milk.
Frequency: For optimal results, it is recommended to consume this twice a day.

Junior Horlicks

Designed for toddlers and preschoolers (ages 2-6), Junior Horlicks supports brain development and growth.

Serving Size: Add 2 to 3 heaped spoonfuls (approximately 23g).
Preparation: Mix into 200ml of hot or cold milk or water.
Frequency: The recommended intake is twice a day.

Horlicks Diabetes Plus

This high-fiber, no added sugar version is specifically for adults with or at risk of diabetes, and should be consumed with a doctor's advice.

Serving Size: Typically 2 levelled scoops (approximately 30g).
Preparation: Stir into 200ml of hot or cold milk or water.
Frequency: Consume once a day, preferably after a main meal.

Lite Horlicks

Targeted at active adults, this variant contains no added sugar, though natural sugars are still present.

Serving Size: Use 3 heaped teaspoonfuls (approximately 25g).
Preparation: Mix into 200ml of hot or cold milk or water.
Frequency: This can be taken twice a day.

Comparing Horlicks Variants and Serving Sizes


Product Variant	Recommended Serving	Spoons (approx.)	Frequency	Key Feature	Primary Audience
Classic Malt	27g	3 heaped tsp	1-2 times daily	All-round family nutrition	All ages
Women's Plus	30g	3 heaped tsp	Twice daily	Bone health support	Women (19-50)
Junior Horlicks	23g	2-3 heaped tsp	Twice daily	Brain development, growth	Toddlers (2-6)
Diabetes Plus	30g	2 levelled scoops	Once daily	Fiber-rich, no added sugar	Adults with diabetes
Lite Horlicks	25g	3 heaped tsp	Twice daily	No added sugar, for active adults	Adults (19+)

General Best Practices for Horlicks Consumption

Consider Your Overall Diet

While Horlicks provides a range of fortified nutrients, it should supplement, not replace, a balanced diet. Excess consumption can lead to too much sugar and calorie intake, especially in the classic and junior variants. For those monitoring blood sugar, even reduced-sugar versions require moderation.

Consult a Health Professional

Before incorporating a new supplement into your diet, particularly for specific health conditions like diabetes, it is wise to consult a doctor or nutritionist. They can provide personalized advice based on your health profile and nutritional needs. This is especially important for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Potential Side Effects of Overindulgence

Consuming significantly more than the recommended dosage may cause side effects, although these are rare when following directions.

High sugar intake: Can lead to weight gain and blood sugar fluctuations.
Digestive issues: Some users report minor issues like nausea or constipation with excessive amounts.
Cardiovascular effects: In rare cases of overindulgence, excess sugar and stimulants can increase heart rate or blood pressure.

Conclusion: Personalize Your Horlicks Intake

The number of spoons of Horlicks per day is specific to the variant and individual needs. For most healthy adults, 3 heaped teaspoons (approx. 27g) of Classic Malt once or twice daily is the guideline, while specialized versions like Women's Plus, Junior, Diabetes Plus, and Lite have their own specific recommendations. Always check the packaging for the most accurate and up-to-date instructions. By consuming Horlicks in moderation and as a supplement to a balanced diet, you can enjoy its nutritional benefits effectively. For more details on specific products, you can visit the official Horlicks website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Horlicks can be consumed daily as a supplement to a normal, balanced diet. However, it is important to stick to the recommended serving size and choose the right variant for your needs to avoid excessive sugar intake.

For Junior Horlicks (ages 2-6), the recommendation is 2 to 3 heaped spoonfuls (approx. 23g) mixed with 200ml of milk or water, typically taken twice daily.

For Classic Horlicks, the recommended serving for an adult is 3 heaped teaspoons (approx. 27g) once or twice a day. Specialized adult versions like Women's Plus or Lite have different guidelines.

When consumed in excess of the recommended serving size, Horlicks can contribute to weight gain due to its calorie and sugar content. Drinking it in moderation as part of a balanced diet and active lifestyle is key.

Excessive intake, particularly of sugary variants, can lead to side effects such as nausea, increased heart rate, blood sugar spikes, and weight gain. Following the recommended dosage minimizes these risks.

Yes, Horlicks can be prepared with water, either hot or cold. While it dissolves more easily in hot water, preparing it with water is a suitable option for those who prefer not to use milk.

Horlicks offers a specific variant, Horlicks Diabetes Plus, which is formulated for diabetic individuals with no added sugar and high fiber content. Other versions are high in sugar and should be avoided or consumed only under a doctor's supervision.