The Surprising Facts About Strawberry Milkshakes: Dr Dimple shares Insights

Strawberry milkshakes, a favorite for their sweet and tangy taste, may need reconsideration due to insights from an Ayurvedic Health Coach, Dr Dimple. The combination of strawberries' acidity with milk's creaminess can lead to chemical reactions and digestive issues, prompting a reevaluation of this classic treat for better health.

1. The Chemical Reaction Between Strawberries and Milk

Strawberries are citric fruits, with their acidity primarily coming from citric acid, which constitutes about 88% of their acid content. As strawberries ripen, their sugar content increases, but their acidic nature remains. Milk, on the other hand, contains lactic acid. When these two are mixed, as in a strawberry milkshake, a reaction occurs. If you leave a strawberry milkshake covered for a few hours, you'll notice it turns rancid due to the interaction between citric acid and lactic acid.

2. The pH Levels of Strawberries and Milk

The pH level of strawberries typically ranges from 3 to 3.5, classifying them as acidic. Milk, with a pH level close to 7, is considered neutral. When you mix an acidic substance with a neutral one, it can lead to undesirable chemical reactions. In the case of a strawberry milkshake, this mixture can gradually become more acidic over time, leading to potential digestive discomfort.

3. The Digestive Implications of Mixing Milk with Citrus Fruits

Ayurvedic principles advise against mixing milk with sour and citrus fruits, including strawberries. The vitamin C and citric acid in these fruits can cause milk to coagulate, leading to issues such as acid reflux, heartburn, upset stomach, and even allergies or respiratory problems like chest congestion and cough. Unlike the immediate coagulation seen when mixing lemon with milk, the coagulation process with strawberries and milk is slower and continues in the digestive system, which can be problematic for those with sensitive guts.

The Bottom Line: Rethink Your Strawberry Milkshake

While strawberry milkshakes may seem like a harmless indulgence, understanding the underlying chemical reactions and their potential impact on digestion is crucial. The Ayurvedic Health Coach's advice is to enjoy fruits like strawberries on their own, rather than mixing them with milk. This not only preserves the natural integrity of the fruit but also ensures a more harmonious digestion process.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by DrDimple, Ayurveda & Gut Health Coach (@drdimplejangda)

In conclusion, next time you crave a strawberry milkshake, consider the wisdom of Ayurveda. Opt for enjoying your strawberries solo, and embrace the natural, unadulterated flavors that nature has to offer.