Is avil milk good for you? Side effects and what to know

What is avil milk?

Avil (aval) means flattened rice, also called poha. Avil milk is a non-alcoholic drink from the Malabar region of Kerala, India, usually served cold and made with flattened rice, banana, milk and nuts such as roasted peanuts or cashews. Wikipedia places its origin in Kottakkal, Malappuram. Common additions are sugar or honey, cardamom or flavored syrup, and some versions include ice cream. Recipes vary by shop and household.

Is avil milk good for health?

We found no official health source (such as the NHS, NIH or WHO) that makes a health claim about avil milk. Its nutrition depends on the recipe. Milk provides protein and calcium; flattened rice and banana supply carbohydrate; sugar, syrups and ice cream add calories. Claims you may see elsewhere that it cures illnesses or cuts the risk of disease are not supported by official sources.

Are there side effects of drinking avil milk?

Avil milk is a food, not a medicine, and for most people it causes no problem. Points to watch:

• Lactose intolerance: milk can cause bloating, gas or diarrhea. Lactose-free milk is one option.
• Milk allergy and nut allergy: avoid it if you are allergic to milk, and check for peanuts, cashews or other nuts.
• Sugar: sweetened versions can be high in sugar. If you manage diabetes, ask your doctor or dietitian how it fits your plan.
• Food safety: a drink with fresh milk should be kept cold and not left out for hours. The USDA advises discarding perishable food left out more than 2 hours (1 hour above 90 degrees F).

How to make it lighter

• Use less sugar or skip syrup and ice cream.
• Use ripe banana for sweetness.
• Keep portions modest.

If you have a medical condition, are pregnant or give it to young children, ask a doctor or dietitian.