What are the disadvantages of Thandai?

January 13, 2026 •

4 min read

While celebrated as a traditional Indian coolant, one glass of sweetened Thandai can contain up to 300 calories, prompting a closer look at what are the disadvantages of Thandai and its potential health drawbacks. Despite its reputation for providing relief from the summer heat and aiding digestion, there are several lesser-known risks associated with this popular beverage.

Quick Summary

The downsides of Thandai include high sugar and calorie content leading to weight gain and complications for diabetics, severe health risks from bhang-infused versions, and potential allergic reactions to nuts or seeds. Overconsumption can also lead to digestive issues and, in rare cases, medication interactions due to certain spices.

Key Points

High Sugar & Calories: Traditional and commercial Thandai recipes are often loaded with sugar and calories, posing risks for weight management and diabetics.
Bhang-Infused Risks: Bhang Thandai, containing cannabis, can cause serious side effects like increased heart rate, low blood pressure, anxiety, and impaired memory.
Allergy Concerns: The presence of various nuts and seeds, such as almonds and poppy seeds, makes Thandai unsafe for individuals with corresponding allergies.
Lactose Intolerance: Since Thandai is typically milk-based, it is unsuitable for those with lactose intolerance unless prepared with a dairy-free alternative.
Drug Interactions: Ingredients like poppy seeds and nutmeg can potentially interact with certain medications, requiring caution from individuals on prescription drugs.
Overconsumption Side Effects: Drinking too much Thandai can lead to digestive discomfort, nausea, and vomiting due to its richness and density.
Adulteration: Commercially available mixes or street-side preparations can be adulterated with low-quality or harmful ingredients, negating potential health benefits.

High Sugar Content and Calorie Concerns

One of the most significant disadvantages of Thandai is its high sugar and calorie density, especially in commercially prepared versions or when prepared with excessive sweeteners. Traditional recipes often call for generous amounts of sugar or honey, which can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed regularly. For individuals managing diabetes, a single glass can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, making it a beverage to consume with extreme caution and in very limited quantities. While homemade versions offer more control over sugar content, the calorie load from the nuts and full-fat milk remains substantial.

Weight Management and Diabetic Risks

The combination of fats from nuts, natural sugars from the base, and added sweeteners makes Thandai an energy-dense drink. For someone on a weight management plan, this can be counterproductive. The high glycemic load can disrupt metabolic balance and undermine weight loss efforts. Diabetics should be particularly vigilant, as the high sugar content directly impacts blood glucose regulation. Choosing a sugar-free or low-sugar alternative made with low-fat milk or a plant-based substitute can mitigate some of these risks, but moderation is always key.

Serious Health Dangers of Bhang-Infused Thandai

During festivals like Holi, Thandai is sometimes infused with bhang, a psychoactive preparation of cannabis. This practice introduces severe health risks that far outweigh the benefits of the traditional drink. The bhang component, particularly its THC content, can have unpredictable and adverse effects on the body and mind.

Possible Side Effects of Bhang Thandai:

Increased Heart Rate: Bhang can cause a significant spike in heart rate, which is particularly dangerous for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.
Blood Pressure Drop: THC dilates blood vessels, leading to a drop in blood pressure and potential dizziness.
Mental Health Impact: It can trigger or worsen anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders.
Memory Impairment: Short-term memory and concentration can be affected for hours or even weeks after consumption.
Harmful to Vulnerable Groups: Pregnant or lactating women should never consume bhang-infused Thandai, as it can harm the baby.

For more information on the risks of bhang, consult reliable sources like Healthline's article on Bhang.

Allergic Reactions and Dietary Intolerances

The rich ingredient list of Thandai, including various nuts and seeds, presents a significant risk for people with allergies. Common allergens include almonds, pistachios, and poppy seeds. Similarly, the traditional recipe's reliance on dairy milk makes it unsuitable for individuals with lactose intolerance. While plant-based milks are an alternative, this doesn't address potential nut allergies.

Overconsumption and Digestive Issues

Although some ingredients in Thandai are known to aid digestion, excessive consumption can lead to adverse effects. The rich, heavy nature of the drink, especially when made with full-fat milk and a high concentration of nuts, can be difficult to digest for some. Overdosing on Thandai can lead to nausea, vomiting, or other gastrointestinal discomfort. Moderation is advised to avoid these unwanted side effects.

Comparison of Thandai Types


Feature	Homemade Thandai (Low Sugar)	Commercial Thandai Mixes	Bhang-Infused Thandai
Sugar Content	Customizable, can be very low	Often very high	Customizable, but risks are not sugar-related
Calorie Count	High due to nuts, but manageable	Very high due to sugar and fat	Very high due to base ingredients
Allergy Risk	High due to nuts and seeds	High, requires checking labels	High, same as regular versions
Medication Risk	Low, if spices are moderated	Potential interactions if not disclosed	Highest risk, psychoactive interactions
Psychoactive Effects	None	None	Very high, can be dangerous

Medication Interactions

Certain ingredients in Thandai, particularly poppy seeds and nutmeg, can interact with medications. Individuals taking specific drugs should consult their doctor before consuming Thandai to ensure there are no contraindications. The psychoactive properties of bhang-infused versions can also significantly and negatively interact with psychiatric medications.

Quality and Adulteration Concerns

Commercial Thandai mixes can contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and excessive sugars, diminishing the traditional beverage's nutritional value. Furthermore, during festive seasons, the risk of adulteration in local Thandai preparations increases, which can ruin celebrations and pose health risks. Opting for a homemade version with high-quality ingredients is the safest approach.

Conclusion

While Thandai offers refreshing and nutritious qualities, it is not without its disadvantages. From high sugar content posing risks for diabetics and weight-conscious individuals to the serious dangers of bhang-infused versions, it is crucial to be aware of the potential drawbacks. Allergies to nuts, lactose intolerance, and possible medication interactions add further cautionary notes. By understanding these issues, consumers can make informed choices, opt for mindful, low-sugar preparations, and practice moderation to enjoy Thandai safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Thandai, especially when made with traditional recipes or commercial mixes, is often high in sugar and calories, which can impact blood sugar levels and contribute to weight gain.

Yes, bhang-infused Thandai is dangerous for individuals with heart conditions as it can cause a significant and dangerous spike in heart rate. Traditional Thandai is generally safe, but should be consumed in moderation.

Traditional Thandai is not suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals as it is milk-based. However, versions made with plant-based milks like almond or oat milk are safe options.

Yes, Thandai contains several nuts and seeds, including almonds, pistachios, and poppy seeds, which can cause severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Thandai contains ingredients like poppy seeds and nutmeg that may interact with certain medications. It is best to consult a doctor, especially if you are on prescription drugs.

Bhang-infused Thandai is not safe and carries significant health risks, including rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, and mental health issues. It should be avoided, especially by pregnant women and those with heart conditions.

Yes, overconsumption of Thandai can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and digestive discomfort due to its rich and heavy nature.

Commercial Thandai mixes often contain high amounts of added sugar, preservatives, and artificial flavors, making them less healthy than homemade versions where you can control the ingredients and sweetness.

Yes, if consumed in excess, the high calorie and sugar content of Thandai can contribute to weight gain.