For ages, ghee has been an important staple of traditional Indian cooking. The simple kichdi or plain dal chawal becomes sumptuous by just adding a spoonful of ghee to it. Ghee, or clarified butter, not only enhances the taste of food but also has many health benefits. In fact, Ayurveda, India’s ancient system of medicine uses ghee in most of its medicinal preparations.

However, over the past 30 years, ghee has got a bad reputation due to its high saturated fat content. Later, research revealed that ghee is actually very good for the heart. Instead of increasing the risk of heart disease, it helps to decrease it. It was also found to be rich in a number of vitamins and fatty acids leading to some interesting health benefits.

Ghee reduces the risk of heart disease:

It is unfortunate that the war on saturated fats has led to traditional foods being replaced by highly processed ones doing more harm than good. Ghee is rich in conjugated linoleic acid, or CLA, a fatty acid known to be protective against carcinogens, artery plaque and diabetes. Researchers believe, because of these benefits, ghee can potentially be used to stave off cardiovascular diseases. It is no wonder then,  that a study on a rural population in India showed that men who ate higher amounts of traditional ghee had lower incidences of heart disease than those who ate less of it.

Ghee is good for the digestive system:

Ghee is good for digestion as it is rich in butyric acid, a short-chain fatty acid that nourishes the cells of the intestines. It reduces inflammatory conditions, reduces seepage of undigested food particles, and aids in the repair of the mucosal wall. So include ghee in your diet as good digestion is important to maintain good health.

Ghee can help you lose weight:

Contrary to the notion that ghee makes one fat, it helps prevent weight gain and aids in weight loss. The CLA present in ghee induces weight loss as was revealed by a study where overweight participants were given CLA supplements.

Ghee helps to make beautiful babies:

Ghee is an important source of vitamin K2 which plays a crucial role in facial and dental development leading to babies with wide symmetrical faces with plenty of room for straight, healthy teeth. Hence pregnant women should incorporate ghee into their diet for beautiful babies.

Antiviral properties:

Ghee helps to strengthen your immune system as it has antiviral and antibacterial properties. It boosts immunity in all seasons.

Good bone health:

Ghee acts as an excellent lubricant for bones. Regular intake of ghee in children help them to develop strong muscles and bones.

Glowing skin:

No amount of external makeup can match the natural glow that comes from within by following a healthy and balanced diet. Consume four spoons of ghee daily for a healthy and glowing skin.

So, now switch over to chapattis with ghee and add ghee to your rice and curries and enjoy the taste as well as good health.