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Ghee – a type of clarified butter commonly used in Indian cuisine, offers several potential health benefits when consumed in moderation. The calorie-dense superfood that is typically made with cow milk or buffalo milk is used for cooking as well as consumption purposes. From sweets to savoury dishes, ghee has been used widely across a variety of cuisines and cultures. Reports also prove that ghee is meant to be one of the best dairy products for people belonging to all ages and applicable for all internal body mechanisms. Here is a consolidated list of reasons why ghee is beneficial to include in your diet.
Healthy Fat Source
Composed primarily of saturated fats, which can provide a concentrated source of energy, ghee contains medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) that are easily digested and metabolized by the body, providing quick fuel. Hence, adding it to your meal or even a cup of coffee, ensures slow release of energy, that keeps you going for a longer period of time, instead of a crash-and-burn phenomenon that could occur from saturated fats or refined sugar.
Nutrient-Rich
Ghee also contains essential fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin A, D, E, and K, which are important for various bodily functions. These vitamins play a role in promoting healthy vision, maintaining bone health, supporting the immune system, and acting as antioxidants. Consuming ghee has also been known to prevent drying up of the lubrication in bone joints, thereby reducing or soothing the effects of arthritis and other ailments.
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Supports Digestion
Ghee is believed to stimulate the secretion of stomach acids, which aids in digestion. It can help improve the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and minerals from other foods and promote a healthy digestive system. Ghee also lubricates the digestive tract and eases the process of excretion for those suffering from constipation, piles, IBS, etc.
Image Credits: Archana's Kitchen
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Ghee contains butyric acid, a short-chain fatty acid known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It may help reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and support gut health. Consuming ghee also encourages the growth of healthy gut bacteria, which is essential to maintaining good metabolism as well as repairing intestinal linings.
Lactose-Free
Since ghee is made by separating the milk solids from butter, it results in a clarified butter that is low in lactose and casein. For individuals with lactose or casein sensitivities, ghee can be a suitable alternative to butter. Ghee is also an unsaturated fat source, making it ideal for those who are on a diet or must consume limited quantities of fat to lose weight.
Potential Medicinal Properties
Ayurvedic medicine considers ghee to have medicinal properties. It is believed to promote longevity, enhance memory, support the immune system, improve skin health, and aid in healing wounds, when used topically. Due to its high smoke point, it can withstand higher cooking temperatures compared to many other cooking oils. This makes it a stable fat for cooking and frying without producing harmful free radicals that might cause carcinogenic reactions in the body.
