What are the health benefits of Doodh soda?

Does doodh soda have health benefits?

No official health body lists benefits for doodh soda. Its milk provides protein and calcium, but the lemon-lime soda or syrup adds sugar. Claims that it is probiotic or improves digestion are not supported, because it is not fermented. Treat it as a sweet cold drink.

What is doodh soda?

It is a cold drink popular in Punjab in Pakistan and India, made by mixing milk with a carbonated drink. Its local name in Pakistan is also pakola doodh. It is especially associated with hot summers and with iftar during Ramadan.

How do you make doodh soda?

A recipe reported by Gulf News uses:

• 1 to 2 tablespoons flavored syrup such as rooh afza
• 1/2 cup cold milk
• 1/2 cup club soda, Sprite or 7-Up

Pour the syrup in a tall glass, add the milk and mix, then add the soda and mix again. Serve with ice. You can skip the syrup if you use a flavored soda. Use cold milk and add the soda last.

Is doodh soda safe to drink?

Dietitians quoted by Gulf News say it may not suit people with sensitive stomachs, that it can cause acidity, and that unbalanced proportions can make the milk clot. Another dietitian advised drinking it occasionally, not as a routine. Serve it cold and keep milk and soda in roughly equal parts, as the dietitians advise.

Who should avoid it?

• People with milk allergy or lactose intolerance.
• People who need to limit sugar, such as those with diabetes: it can be high in sugar, so ask a doctor.
• Anyone with reflux or acidity.

Can you make a lighter version?

Use plain sparkling water instead of sweet soda, less syrup, and low-fat milk. Nutrition varies by recipe, so we give no calorie number.