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There are several speculations over the statement, “Is ghee healthy or not?”. Due to forwarded messages over several apps which have no scientific backings, our simple home-made ghee is now kept locked inside the shelves. Ayurveda practitioners believe that ghee is healthier for the body than plain butter. But there are several scientific studies that can provide enough proof that ghee is a healthy ingredient that incurs several benefits.
Table of Contents
How Healthy is Ghee?
A tablespoon of ghee contains approximately 112 calories. The nutritional data of 14 grams or one tablespoon of ghee.
| Nutrients | Amount |
| Carbs | Trace amounts |
| Protein | Trace amounts |
| Fat | 13 grams |
| Vitamin A | 12% of the Daily value |
| Vitamin E | 2% of the Daily Value |
| Vitamin K | 1% of the Daily Value |
| Saturated fat | 8 grams |
| Monounsaturated fat | 4 grams |
| Polyunsaturated fat | 0.5 grams |
Properties of ghee
The nutritional data of ghee shows that there are several benefits associated with eating ghee. It is rich in dietary fats which are necessary to digest the vitamins (vitamin A, vitamin D and vitamin K) it contains. The fats work by combining with the vitamin molecules to digest. This makes it easier for the people with gluten-sensitivity or Crohn’s disease to absorb the nutrients more easily so these can be used.
Ghee is also rich in short-chain and medium-chain fatty acids which enhances the heart health and lowers insulin resistance. There are studies that are suggestive of the fact that these medium-chain fatty acids are more beneficial for the body than the longer chains as these are more digestible and doesn’t get stored as fat. This considerably reduces the chances of obesity and obesity-related diseases.
Ghee also contains butyric acid. You might not know that the gut bacteria convert fibers into butyric acid which is used for energy and provides support to the intestinal wall. So, when you consume clarified butter or ghee, it contributes to your gut health. This will help to prevent various digestive disorders.
As ghee is ‘clarified’ butter, the lactose content of ghee is very low. Hence, it is an alternative good option for lactose intolerant or dairy sensitive or people who want to limit their dairy intake.
Also Read: 10 Weight Loss Mistakes When You Are Over 40
10 Health Benefits of Ghee
Ghee for strength
Due to its high nutritional level, consuming ghee on a regular basis boosts the mental as well as physical strength. This keeps various illnesses and ailments at bay. Moreover, it improves eyesight, muscles, and tendons. Ghee works by acting as a cleansing agent by removing all the harmful toxicants from the body.
Ghee for cholesterol
Desi Ghee is a good option for people with high cholesterol. But make sure to consume ghee in considerable amounts if you are suffering from high cholesterol. When you compare it with butter, the fat content of ghee is much lower in fats.
Ghee for weight loss
As discussed above, ghee has several benefits in the body. Ghee is rich in omega 3 fats and omega 6 which is known to increase lean body mass while reducing fat mass. All the above-mentioned roles of the ghee points towards the fact that it is essential to stimulate the digestive process and aids in weight loss. Supposedly, ghee also restores the balance of the mind and boosts the functioning of the brain.
Ghee keeps the body warm
Ghee generates a lot of heat in the body hence, it keeps the body warm from within. Hence, this is one of the main ingredients in various dishes prepared in the winter season.
Ghee reduces the risk of constipation
Taking ghee with every meal can reduce the problem of constipation considerably. If you don’t feel like taking ghee during meals, add 1 or 2 teaspoons of ghee in a cup of hot milk hitting the bed.
Ghee offers skin benefits
Pure desi ghee made from cow’s milk is very effective in providing a soft and supple skin. This nourishing agent is rich in important fatty acids that can infuse easily in the skin. Moreover, it can work on all types of skin and hydrate the skin.
Ghee opens blocked nose
According to Ayurveda, putting a few drops of ghee in the morning can help in soothing out symptoms of cold including a blocked nose. As ghee is anti-inflammatory in nature, it can cure the infection in the throat as well as alleviate headaches.
Ghee enhances digestive health
Consuming ghee boosts up the gut health. This works by coating the gut and reducing the chances of ulcers and cancer.
Ghee treats irregular periods
Women suffering from irregular periods or pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) should ideally take one spoon of ghee regularly. A spoon of ghee works by balancing the various hormones in the body.
Ghee reduces inflammation
Ghee is one of the richest sources of Butyric acid which is an anti-cancer constitute. In addition to reducing the risk of cancer, ghee is high in antioxidants that lower the risk of inflammation in the body.
Things to consider
Anything consumed in appropriate amounts is healthy for the body. It is okay to consume 10 to 15 grams of ghee in a day. But people who have previous instances of cardiovascular diseases, overweight or clinically obese must consult with their doctors first. Moreover, it is better to eat all dietary foods by eating various high-fiber diets than relying on ghee as a single remedy.
