Quick Take
A social media post suggests that eating milk and jalebi help relieve body and joint pain. We fact checked and found the claim to be false.
The Claim
An Instagram post claims that “Having jalebi soaked in warm milk can cure back and joint pain.”
Fact Check
Does jalebi with milk have any real pain-relieving properties?
When asked Dr Sushant Srivastava, Orthopaedic Surgeon he said ,”No, it does not provide any proven pain relief.” There is no medical research showing that this sugary, deep-fried sweet dipped in milk has anti-inflammatory or analgesic (pain-reducing) effects. Jalebi is made from refined flour and sugar, both of which have zero nutritional role in reducing any type of joint discomfort. Milk does contain nutrients like calcium and protein, but these support long-term bone health, not immediate joint pain relief. Many studies also talk about dairy and inflammation connection. The idea that mixing the two creates a healing remedy mostly comes from traditional beliefs, not scientific evidence. At best, the warm milk may give a temporary sense of comfort, but comfort is not the same as healing.
Can milk alone help with joint health in any meaningful way?
Yes, but only in a limited and long-term manner. Milk offers calcium, protein and sometimes added vitamin D, nutrients that help keep bones strong over time. Some studies suggest that regular consumption of low-fat dairy may be linked to slower progression of certain joint conditions like osteoarthritis in some people. But this benefit is mild, long-term and not guaranteed. Milk does not work like a painkiller, nor does it treat inflammation or cartilage wear directly. It certainly does not produce instant relief, which is what the viral claim implies. So while milk is nutritious, calling it a “joint pain remedy” would be a stretch.
Could eating sugary foods like jalebi actually worsen joint pain instead?
Yes, excessive sugar intake can increase inflammation and worsen pain. Jalebi is made by deep-frying refined flour and then soaking it in sugar syrup, a combination known to cause sharp spikes in blood sugar and promote low-grade inflammation in the body. Inflammatory processes can make joint pain feel worse, especially for people with arthritis or chronic joint problems. Additionally, frequent consumption of calorie-dense sweets may lead to weight gain, which puts extra pressure on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips. So, far from being a cure, regular jalebi intake may actually add to joint strain.
Is there any scientific evidence supporting the traditional belief behind this remedy?
No, there is no research validating the claim. The belief that warm jalebi in milk “cures” back and joint pain mostly circulates through social media, family traditions and anecdotal experiences. These stories might feel convincing, but they do not replace scientific trials, medical evaluation or expert recommendations. Most traditional claims arise from temporary comfort, warm food can make the body feel soothed for a while, especially after fatigue or cold exposure. But this temporary comfort is not medical recovery. No controlled study, clinical observation or nutritional research supports this as a treatment for any joint condition.
Dr Mohit Sandhu, an Ayurvedic expert said, “It may offer relief only in very specific situations and certainly not because of the jalebi. Any benefit comes from the ghee, the warmth, and the pacification of Vata–Pitta, not the sugar. Avoid jalebi with milk if your joints show swelling, heat, or redness, if you have diabetes, if you experience indigestion or acidity, or if your pain is due to Aamvat or rheumatoid arthritis.”
Jalebi with milk is a tasty indulgence, not a therapy. There is no scientific mechanism by which it can heal joint pain, reduce inflammation or help manage arthritis. Occasional enjoyment is fine, but relying on this home remedy instead of proper medical care can delay diagnosis and worsen symptoms. If joint pain persists, it’s always wise to consult a healthcare professional.
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