A glass of chilled buttermilk after returning home, on a hot summer afternoon, is soothing like no other soda or beverage. While traditional buttermilk was the residual liquid that stayed after curds had been churned and separated in order to make butter, just simple fresh yoghurt and water also work fine. While there are many variations in India as to how buttermilk is consumed, it is highly recommended that in order to get the maximum benefit, buttermilk must be consumed warm.
Not only is the drink rich in protein and probiotics, buttermilk is the most ideal drink for the summer due to its cooling properties. Having a glass of buttermilk post lunch aids in the production of digestive juices, keeping the system feeling light and preventing gut issues like bloating. The calcium-rich drink also contains traces of phosphorous and potassium, both of which are minerals essential for cellular regeneration and repair, in the body.
Buttermilk is also beneficial to those who experience hot flushes during the summer due to its cooling properties. It helps in regulating hormones in post-menopausal women as well as restores any loss of electrolytes from the body, as a result of sweating. Buttermilk is also helpful for those suffering with irritable bowel syndrome and is great to maintain good bone health.
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It is proven that regular consumption of buttermilk aids in easing those suffering from hypertension or high blood pressure, as well as to combat acidity stemming from eating spicy or oily foods during the summer. The lactic acid present in buttermilk soothes the gut lining and acts as a barrier between any potential damage. The diluted beverage strengthens the immune system and moisturises the skin from within, thus preventing any toxin build-up that results in breakouts or weather-related ailments.
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Using buttermilk externally on your skin is an excellent idea to even out your skin tone, which may have tanned in the harsh sun. It is effective to remove age spots, blemishes and delays the process of aging considerably. Adding some black pepper powder, grated ginger or a handful of fresh mint leaves improve the nutrient-density of the drink further.
Consuming buttermilk on a regular basis also aids in regulation of weight issues as well as keeping blood sugar levels in check. If you do not wish to consume buttermilk in its raw form, adding a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves and asafoetida, to consume with rice at the end of a meal, is also ideal. Due to its tendency to make the person drinking it feel full, it helps in avoiding unnecessary snacking or consumption of junk food. Buttermilk is also rich in riboflavin, a necessary chemical that helps the body convert food into energy in order to perform various functions.