Ghee is commonly used in Indian households; it is an ingredient that is needed in most Indian dishes. From sweet to savoury, ghee is used in all kinds of dishes. Ghee is sometimes referred to as a purified or refined version of butter.
Moreover, it is considered to be a wonder food! So, let’s learn more about ghee as a wonder food and its benefits. Keep scrolling to find out!
What Is Ghee?
Ghee, a healthier alternative to regular butter, is made from cow milk butter. The cow milk butter is heated using low heat until the water vaporises. The milk solids remain as a product or byproduct.
These solids are then strained at times, whenever needed. Therefore, the remaining product of this process is called ghee. It is a refined or clarified liquid fat. Ghee is prepared or made with low heat.
Hence, it does not lose out on its nutrients. It is usually prepared under 100 degrees. Furthermore, ghee has been a significant part of Ayurveda, an ancient medical practice in India. One teaspoon of ghee contains about 42 calories and 5 grams of fat.
Health Benefits Of Ghee
Ghee is rich in vitamin A, D, C, K and E. Research states that vitamin E contains antioxidants that help prevent cancer, arthritis, and cataracts.
It also lowers the risk of cardiac-related disease (heart disease). Fun fact: Ghee is rich in healthy fats to help burn fat. Yes, you heard that right! Furthermore, ghee provides your body with essential vitamins and minerals as well.
Written below are the health benefits of ghee:
1) Helps treat burns and reduce swelling:-
Ghee has anti-inflammatory properties consisting of butyrate( a type of fatty acid). Butyrate is used in Ayurveda; it has proven to soothe inflammation in the body.
2) Fights obesity:-
Even though ghee contains a good amount of fat content, the fat is healthy, contributing to reducing obesity. Ghee is a good source of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which may help reduce extra weight gain. It may even get rid off of the fat in your body.
3) Improves and maintains good heart health:-
Ghee contains high levels of monosaturated omega 3; these are healthy fats that support the heart. Ghee eaten in proportion in a balanced diet may even reduce cholesterol levels, as stated by some studies.
4) Acts as a better substitute for milk-based products:-
Ghee is made by extracting mild solids. As a result, ghee contains trivial amounts of lactose and casein. These are milk sugar and protein components. Therefore, ghee is an excellent source of fat for lactose intolerant individuals or individuals with other diary related allergies or health complications.
Side Effects Of Ghee?
- Excessive intake of ghee can lead to saturated fat build up in the body, which may cause heart diseases.
- As mentioned above, CLA in ghee may reduce weight gain for a few people. CLA is rich in calories and fats too. However, excessive consumption of ghee can lead to more weight gain and increase the risk of obesity.
Also Read: Should You Use Homeopathic Medicine for Weight Loss?
Takeaway
Ghee can be great for the body, so make sure to have ghee in moderation for best results! Ghee can be bought from stores or even made at home.
Homemade ghee can be kept outside for up to 3 months in an airtight container and away from direct sunlight. So, what are you waiting for? Introduce ghee to your existing diet today! Thank you for reading. Stay healthy, folks!
