For centuries, ghee has been a staple in Indian cuisine, adding a rich, nutty flavour to countless dishes. But beyond its culinary appeal, pure cow ghee boasts a surprising range of health benefits.
Made by clarifying butter, ghee removes lactose and casein, making it a perfect choice for those with dairy sensitivities. Its high smoke point also makes it ideal for high-heat cooking.
Continue reading to learn more about the nutritional value and surprising health benefits of ghee.
Nutritional Powerhouse
Ghee is a calorie-dense food, offering a concentrated source of energy. A tablespoon of pure cow ghee packs around 14 grams of fat, with most of it being saturated fat. However, ghee also boasts a good amount of monounsaturated fats and a small amount of polyunsaturated fats.
Additionally, ghee is a rich source of fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamin A, which is essential for healthy vision and immunity, Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, and Vitamin K, which plays a crucial role in blood clotting. The nutritional profile of ghee can vary depending on the source of the milk. Opting for organic ghee from grass-fed cows ensures the presence of beneficial fatty acids like conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and butyric acid.
7 Amazing Benefits of Ghee
Boosts Nutrient Absorption:
Due to its high fat content, ghee helps your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, which are crucial for various bodily functions. These vitamins play a vital role in maintaining healthy eyesight, promoting strong immunity, and ensuring proper bone development. Cooking vegetables and other foods with a dollop of ghee can significantly enhance your body’s ability to absorb these essential nutrients.
Potential Benefits for Gut Health:
Ghee contains butyric acid, a short-chain fatty acid known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Studies suggest that butyric acid may help reduce gut inflammation and promote a healthy gut lining. This can be particularly beneficial for those suffering from conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
May Support Heart Health:
While the high saturated fat content of ghee has raised some concerns, research suggests it might not be as detrimental as previously thought. Ghee is a good source of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a fatty acid that may help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL) levels. Additionally, ghee contains monounsaturated fats, which are known to contribute to overall heart health.
Rich Source of Antioxidants:
Organic ghee from grass-fed cows is rich in antioxidants like Vitamin E and beta-carotene, which help fight free radical damage in the body. Free radicals can contribute to various health problems, including premature ageing and chronic diseases. The presence of these antioxidants in ghee may offer some protection against these conditions.
May Aid Weight Management:
Though high in calories, ghee may surprisingly help with weight management. CLA, present in ghee, has been linked to promoting satiety and reducing cravings. Additionally, ghee’s high smoke point makes it ideal for cooking, which can prevent overconsumption of unhealthy oils used for high-heat cooking methods.
Potential Benefits for Skin Health:
The anti-inflammatory properties of ghee, coupled with its Vitamin A content, may contribute to healthy skin. Traditionally, in Ayurvedic medicine, ghee has been used to soothe burns and promote wound healing. While more research is needed, some studies suggest that topical application of ghee may improve skin health.
Ideal for Lactose Intolerant:
For those with lactose intolerance or casein sensitivity, ghee offers a welcome alternative to butter. The clarification process removes lactose and casein, the milk proteins that trigger these sensitivities. This makes ghee a safe and delicious way to enjoy the rich flavour of butter without digestive discomfort.
The Final Verdict
Ghee’s unique properties and potential health benefits make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. When shopping for ghee, opt for pure cow ghee or organic ghee from a reputable source.
ITC’s online store offers a wide range of high-quality ghee that you can buy in 2024. Explore ITC’s store today and discover the culinary and health benefits of incorporating pure cow ghee into your daily routine!
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