Ghee or clarified butter is the most common ingredient found in every Indian household. Whether vegetarian or non-vegetarian, spicy spread or dessert – ghee finds its place in various cuisines. From plain to flavored, several versions of ghee are used in Indian cooking. But do you know the role of this ingredient goes beyond adding good flavor to your food?
Besides being flavorful, ghee is touted as healthy. Made from milk butter and treated with low heat, the clarified liquid fat retains more nutrients than the standard clarified butter. The versatile ghee is not just used as a prime ingredient in the culinary traditions of different parts of the world, it is also considered an herbal medication by the old science of Ayurveda.
This article covers everything about the health benefits of ghee. Read it till the end to find out.
The Nutritional Value of Ghee
In recent times, the popularity of ghee as a healthy ingredient has been overwhelming. This ingredient has gained enough traction as a more nutritious alternative to standard butter. Here is the breakdown of the nutritional value of one tablespoon or 14 grams of ghee.
| Calories | 123 |
| Fat | 14 grams |
| Saturated fat | 9 grams |
| Monounsaturated fat | 4 grams |
| Polyunsaturated fat | 0.5 grams |
| Protein | Trace amounts |
| Carbs | Trace amounts |
| Vitamin A | 13% of the daily value |
| Vitamin E | 3% of the daily value |
| Vitamin K | 1% of the daily value |
What are the Health Benefits of Ghee?
There are many reasons why you should incorporate ghee into your daily diet. From healthy bones to healthy skin and more, the benefits of consuming ghee regularly are listed as under:
Good Source of Energy
As per a few medical reports, ghee is a great source of energy. Ghee comprises medium and short-chain fatty acids, such as lauric acid, which is believed to have potent antimicrobial and antifungal properties. A standard dose of ghee will ensure your body remains energized throughout the day.
Great Source of Fat
In addition to being a good source of energy, ghee is considered a great source of fat. Yes, you heard it right. Desi ghee comprises monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These fats are considered good fats for your body. The combination of fats, carbs, and proteins helps you achieve a sustainable and healthy life, including helping you lose weight.
Many health experts have pointed out that ghee is a preferred factor in oleation – a process of ingesting oil over some time. It helps pull fat-soluble toxins out of your cells. The role of ghee in oleation triggers fat metabolism and accelerates the fat-burning process of your body on its own.
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A Boon for Intestinal Health
When you consume good-quality ghee, your digestive system remains healthy. As per a few medical experts, ghee is one of the best sources of butyric acid – an element that protects the health of your intestinal walls. The cells of the colon use this acid as their preferred source of energy. Butyric acid also supports probiotic bacteria present in the stomach. The regular use of ghee in your daily diet keeps acidity at bay.
Super Food for Heart
While many studies suggest that ghee may raise cholesterol levels, not all are true. Contrary to popular belief, ghee is believed to be a safe bet to invest in for heart health compared to refined oil.
According to a study, fats present in ghee are not associated with heart disease in the manner that long-chain fatty acids are. They are used directly as energy by the body and not stored as fats. If you consume ghee daily in small quantities, it acts as a source of saturated fats for your system. Some studies point out that ghee can be good for lowering bad cholesterol and promoting good cholesterol in the body.
Effective to Maintain Bone Health
One of the lesser-known health benefits of ghee is it has great anti-inflammatory effects on your body. From threats to burns to swelling, the anti-inflammatory effects of ghee help heal various kinds of disorders in your body. Ghee is also considered a boon for your bone health. As per Ayurveda, the daily consumption of ghee helps keep arthritis at bay and maintains bone health in the long run.
An Efficient Remedy for Skin
Besides your overall health, ghee is considered to have benefits for your skin health. In fact, ghee has been a staple in various beauty care rituals around the world since time immemorial. The vital fatty acids in ghee act as a nourishing agent that can do wonders to infuse life in your dry and dull skin.
Reportedly, pure desi ghee made from cow’s milk is extremely powerful in making your skin soft, nourished, and supple. Ghee is suitable for all skin types as it comprises vital fatty acids that maintain the hydration of your skin.
Rich Source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3 fatty acids are considered to be a boon for your health, and ghee is believed to be extremely rich in this source of nutrients. Ghee comprises DHA, a type of Omega-3 fatty acid that is linked to brain development. Apart from this, it also helps slow down the aging process.
Is Desi Ghee Healthy for You?
Ghee is available in various forms in the market, and desi ghee is one of them. Desi ghee is made from pure cow’s milk. It is produced after churning of buttermilk post which is heated at the right temperature in a traditional method. The process of making desi ghee not only gives it a great aroma and rich flavor but also lends various health benefits to the composition.
According to health experts and nutritionists in India, desi ghee comprises healthy fats, out of which 62% are saturated ones that play a vital role in increasing HDL or good cholesterol in the body and reducing LDL and bad cholesterol without harming the lipid profile. Besides this, desi ghee is loaded with other multiple nutrients, such as Omega 3, Omega 6, and amino acids that collectively accelerate your overall well-being.
Final Thoughts
To conclude, ghee is a superfood that offers multiple health benefits to your body. If you haven’t incorporated desi ghee into your daily diet, it is a sign to begin! With the right dose and regular usage, the addition of ghee will do wonders for your health.
