What Does Malted Milk Do to Your Body? A Comprehensive Guide

November 21, 2025 •

3 min read

Malted milk was first invented in 1873 as a nutritional supplement for infants and invalids, showcasing its long-standing reputation as a health-boosting beverage. So, what does malted milk do to your body when you consume it regularly? While it is known for providing an energy boost and being rich in essential nutrients, its effects can be both beneficial and come with potential drawbacks.

Quick Summary

This article details the effects of malted milk on the body, examining its nutritional content, benefits for bone density and digestion, and potential negative impacts related to high sugar content. It also differentiates malted milk from regular milk and discusses who should be cautious with their intake.

Key Points

Energy Boost: The high concentration of B vitamins, iron, and carbohydrates in malted milk provides a quick and sustained energy lift.
Digestive Health: The malting process and enzymes in the extract promote better gut health by supporting probiotic cultures and improving digestibility.
Bone and Blood Strengthening: A good source of calcium, Vitamin D, and iron, malted milk supports strong bones and healthy red blood cell production.
Mental and Skin Benefits: Certain nutrients like riboflavin and antioxidants contribute to healthy skin, while components like hordenine may have mood-boosting effects.
High in Added Sugars: Many commercial malted milk products are high in added sugars, which can lead to weight gain and other health issues if consumed excessively.
Not for Everyone: Due to gluten from barley and lactose from milk, it's unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or lactose intolerance.

Unpacking the Nutritional Profile of Malted Milk

At its core, malted milk powder is a mixture of malted barley, wheat flour, and milk powder. This combination imbues it with a variety of nutrients that impact the body. The malting process itself, which involves sprouting grains and then drying them, increases the grains' nutritional quality by producing enzymes that aid digestion. The final product is a source of B vitamins, minerals like calcium and iron, and easily digestible carbohydrates, making it a quick source of energy.

The Impact on Energy and Metabolism

One of the most immediate effects of consuming malted milk is the energy boost it provides. The rich content of B vitamins, including B2 (riboflavin), B6, and B12, is crucial for metabolizing carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into usable energy. This makes malted milk a popular beverage for kickstarting the day or for a pick-me-up during periods of physical and mental activity. Riboflavin, in particular, also contributes to keeping skin healthy and fresh.

Benefits for Bone and Blood Health

Due to its combination of milk and malted grains, malted milk is rich in bone-building nutrients. The calcium and Vitamin D from the milk, combined with phosphorus, contribute to the formation and maintenance of strong bones. Additionally, the high iron content in malted milk can help strengthen the blood and promote healthy circulation throughout the body. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with lower iron levels, such as growing children or pregnant women.

Digestion and Gut Health: The Role of Malt

Malted milk can have a positive effect on digestive health. The malting process increases the digestibility of the grains by breaking down starches and reducing anti-nutrient content. Malt extract also supports the growth of probiotic cultures, fostering the beneficial bacteria that line the gut. This can improve immune function and nutrient absorption. For those with compromised digestion, such as during convalescence, malted milk is often recommended as it is gentle on the digestive system.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While malted milk offers several benefits, it's not without its downsides, especially when consumed in excess. Most commercial malted milk products contain significant amounts of added sugar, which can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of chronic conditions like obesity and diabetes if overconsumed. The sugar in malted milk is primarily maltose, which is broken down into glucose in the body and can cause a spike in blood sugar, making it a concern for individuals with diabetes. Additionally, since malt is often derived from barley, it contains gluten and is not suitable for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Malted Milk vs. Regular Milk


Feature	Malted Milk	Regular Milk
Key Ingredients	Malted barley, wheat flour, milk powder	Primarily dairy milk
Flavor Profile	Sweet, nutty, with a toasted caramel taste	Neutral, creamy, and dairy-centric
Nutrient Enhancement	Fortified with extra B vitamins, iron, and minerals	Standard vitamins and minerals (Calcium, Vitamin D)
Added Sugar	Often contains a high amount of added sugars	Contains only naturally occurring milk sugars (lactose)
Allergen Profile	Contains gluten (from barley) and dairy	Contains only dairy (lactose)
Digestibility	Highly digestible due to malting enzymes	Digestibility depends on individual lactose tolerance

Who Should Be Cautious?

Individuals with diabetes: The high sugar content can cause blood sugar spikes.
Those with celiac disease: The barley in malt contains gluten.
People with lactose intolerance: The milk content can cause digestive distress.
Health-conscious consumers: High intake can lead to excess calories and added sugar.

Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective

Malted milk can be a beneficial and nutrient-rich addition to a balanced diet, offering energy, supporting bone health, and aiding digestion. Its blend of milk, vitamins, and minerals provides a range of health benefits, especially for those recovering from illness or in need of an energy boost. However, it is crucial to consume it in moderation due to its often-high sugar content, which can counteract its positive effects. As with any dietary choice, the key is balance and awareness. For some, like those with diabetes or gluten sensitivities, it's best to consider alternatives. When enjoyed mindfully, malted milk can be a delicious and nutritious treat that positively impacts the body.

For more detailed nutritional information and alternative healthy drink options, consider exploring resources on balanced nutrition from reputable organizations. For example, see this guide from Healthline on sugars and their effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary benefit of drinking malted milk is the energy boost it provides, thanks to its rich content of B vitamins, iron, and easily digestible carbohydrates, which support metabolic function.

No, malted milk is not generally suitable for people with diabetes because commercial products often contain high amounts of added sugar (maltose), which can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels.

Yes, malted milk can aid digestion. The malting process reduces anti-nutrients and contains enzymes that break down starches, while the malt extract also supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

Yes, most malted milk products contain gluten because the malt is typically derived from barley, a gluten-containing grain. This makes it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Yes, malted milk is beneficial for bone health due to its milk content, which is rich in calcium, Vitamin D, and phosphorus—all vital for building and maintaining strong bones.

Excessive consumption of malted milk can lead to weight gain due to its high sugar content. It may also cause blood sugar spikes, and potentially contribute to health risks like obesity and heart disease over time.

While both provide milk nutrients, malted milk contains additional B vitamins, iron, and digestible carbohydrates from the malted grains. However, it also typically has more added sugar compared to regular milk.