Have you heard about the latest mix-up craze? It’s all about combining Coke and milk! Some swear by its creamy goodness for enhanced libido, while others are scratching their heads in disbelief. Is it a match made in heaven or a kitchen catastrophe? Who knows! But one thing’s for sure, it’s got tongues wagging and taste buds tingling.
An anonymous source from Empangeni in KwaZulu-Natal says this concoction is a great remedy to spice things up between the sheets.
“I have heard that if your system is blocked, milk helps with constipation, cleansing and flushing your system, together with Coke, which results in improved erections.”
Anonymous, however, mentions that he is yet to try it out.
Meanwhile, Brian Mxinwa from Worcester in the Western Cape is sceptical, stating, “It’s funny to think that Coke and milk is a remedy for sexual enhancement; what I know is that this mixture causes diarrhea.”
The Coke and milk myth
Dr Madaliso Phiri, who heads up the #Keready mobile clinics in the King Cetshwayo District in KwaZulu-Natal, says while drinking a Coke and milk mixture might offer some nutritional benefits compared to drinking Coke alone, especially if you’re looking to benefit from the nutritional contents of milk, there are no benefits regarding libido enhancement, and there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
“Drinking this beverage can cause digestive discomfort, such as bloating, vomiting, and diarrhea,” he warns.
Phiri says a milk and Coke mixture in other countries is popularly consumed as a beverage and not with the intent to increase libido.
“The misconception of consuming a Coke and milk mixture to increase libido is not as widespread in other countries as it was in South Africa when it started trending a lot on Twitter back in 2013.”
He also notes that the trend was initiated based on speculations and people trying to experiment with no proof to support their claims. Many people on social media have reported stomach discomfort after consuming it.
Phiri emphasises that drinking this mixture can cause short-term effects such as digestive discomfort.
“The Coke in this mixture is what mainly makes it unhealthy. It has no nutritional value and is high in sugar and phosphoric acid, which can pose long-term health effects such as increased risks for cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke, and diabetes by more than 20%.”
Dr Madaliso Phiri
He adds, “This also increases the risk of developing osteoporosis, tooth decay, weight gain, gout, and dementia, among other health issues.”
Health For Mzansi has covered many stories on the good and bad of different types of drinks – from fizzy drinks to fruit juices. Read all about the health benefits and drawbacks.
Yep, it’s time to ditch unhealthy fizzy drinks
Carbonated beverages are drinks where water is combined with carbon dioxide gas under pressure, resulting in sparkling water, club soda, soda water, seltzer water, and fizzy drinks. They often include added salt and minerals to enhance flavor but offer little to no nutritional value. However, beyond their bubbly nature and wide array of flavors, carbonated drinks have become a staple in social gatherings and can provide a refreshing pick-me-up on a hot day. Despite their lack of nutrients, they have garnered popularity for their effervescence and ability to quench thirst in a uniquely satisfying way.
Despite its satisfying quenching properties, Dr Mxolisi Xulu, based in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, warns that carbonated beverage cravings can develop into dependence, potentially leading to mental and physical health difficulties.
Health drinks: Busting beverage beliefs from fruits to fizz
Healthy drinks, those delicious concoctions of blended fruits and veggies, are often hailed as the epitome of health in a glass. While they can be a great addition to a balanced diet, relying too heavily on smoothies for your nutritional needs can lead to imbalances and deficiencies. Plus, blending fruits and vegetables can strip away some of their natural fiber, leading to a quicker spike in blood sugar levels.
So, while smoothies are undeniably tasty and nutritious, moderation is key to ensure they’re a complement to, rather than a replacement for, a well-rounded diet.
Sparkling water: Healthy fizz of fizzled out?
For ages, plain old still water has held the crown as the go-to healthy thirst-quencher. But now, enter sparkling water with its bubbly charm! It’s like the party version of hydration, adding a bit of pizzazz to your sips. But hold on a sec – amidst all the fizz and fun, folks are wondering, is this bubbly goodness as healthy as it seems? Let’s dive into the sparkling debate and uncover the truth behind the bubbles.
ALSO READ: From baking to healing, bicarbonate of soda is all that and more!
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