What are the benefits of eating desi ghee for overall health?

Question

I’ve heard so much about the benefits of eating desi ghee, but I’m still unsure how it truly impacts overall health. Growing up, my grandparents always emphasized adding desi ghee to every meal, whether it was spread on rotis or mixed into dal. Back then, I never really thought about its benefits, but now I’m curious.

One of the main benefits of eating desi ghee that I’ve read about is improved digestion. Apparently, it acts as a natural lubricant for the digestive system and even helps with nutrient absorption. Is this true? If so, how much desi ghee should one consume daily to see these effects?

I’ve also heard that it helps with boosting immunity. Some people claim that desi ghee, especially when paired with herbs like turmeric, can protect the body from infections and illnesses. Is there any truth to this? And can this benefit extend to children and elderly people as well? I want to know if adding desi ghee to their diet could help strengthen their immunity.

Another benefit I’m curious about is its role in joint health. I’ve been experiencing some mild knee pain, and a friend suggested adding more desi ghee to my meals to reduce inflammation. Does desi ghee really help with joint pain or stiffness? Are there specific ways to consume it for this purpose?

I’ve also heard a lot about the benefits of eating desi ghee for skin and hair. Some people say it helps maintain skin moisture and makes hair stronger and shinier. Does consuming ghee actually have these effects, or do you need to apply it externally?

Lastly, I’m worried about the fat content. While I know desi ghee is a healthy fat, could consuming it regularly lead to weight gain? Some sources claim it boosts metabolism and helps with weight management, while others say you need to limit your intake to avoid gaining weight. How do you balance the benefits with portion control?

If anyone has been consuming desi ghee regularly, I’d love to hear your experience. Have you noticed any specific health improvements? Are there any particular ways to include it in meals that enhance its benefits?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Desi ghee can have a variety of health benefits when consumed in moderation, and many of the claims you’ve heard are supported by traditional wisdom and some scientific backing:

Improved Digestion:
Yes, desi ghee helps with digestion. It acts as a natural lubricant for the digestive system, easing the movement of food through the gut and promoting better nutrient absorption. It also has butyric acid, which supports gut health.
For daily consumption, a tablespoon (about 10-15g) with meals is enough. Too much can lead to excess calories and fat, so moderation is key.
Immunity Boost:
Desi ghee is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, which support immune function. Combining it with turmeric (as your friend suggested) enhances its anti-inflammatory properties.
Yes, it can be beneficial for children and elderly people, but always ensure that the intake aligns with their specific dietary needs and health conditions.
Joint Health:
Desi ghee contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help with joint pain and stiffness, especially when consumed regularly. The fat in ghee helps lubricate joints and may reduce inflammation over time.
Consuming ghee with warm water or milk can be beneficial for easing joint pain. It’s often mixed with spices like ginger or turmeric to enhance its effectiveness.
Skin & Hair:
Consuming desi ghee can improve skin hydration from the inside out due to its healthy fat content, and it can also promote stronger, shinier hair by nourishing the scalp and follicles.
While consuming it has internal benefits, applying it externally can also provide skin moisturization and help with hair health, especially for dry skin or brittle hair.
Weight Management:
Ghee can boost metabolism, especially due to its medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), which are easily converted into energy. However, portion control is important. Excessive consumption can contribute to weight gain.
The general recommendation is to keep daily intake between 1-2 tablespoons to reap the benefits without overdoing it.
Ways to Include Desi Ghee:

Spread on rotis or parathas.
Mix into dal or curries.
Add to warm milk or smoothies.
Drizzle over vegetables or use it for tempering spices in cooking.
Many people find that consuming ghee regularly improves digestion, energy, and even skin. If you're mindful of portion control, it can be a wonderful addition to a balanced diet without the risk of weight gain.

Dr. Ayush Varma · Answer

Alright, so when it comes to desi ghee, it's truly a special element in Ayurveda. Eating it can definitely offer several health perks. For digestion, you're right on point! Desi ghee indeed acts as a "lubricant", of sorts, for the digestive system. Thanks to its butyric acid content, it supports the intestinal walls and helps in better nutrient absorption. To see these effects, generally a teaspoon or two a day should hit the spot. It's all about moderation with this kind of stuff, honestly.

Now, about boosting immunity, combining desi ghee with turmeric and other Ayurvedic herbs can be a game-changer. Ghee is a great vehicle for transporting these herbs, enhancing their effectiveness thanks to its oily nature. It's particularly beneficial for children and elders due to its nourishing properties, so yes, adding a little bit in their diet might strengthen immunity.

Regarding joints, some swear by it for soothing joint pain and stiffness over time. Since ghee can reduce vata dosha aggravation, it may indeed help with joints. You might want to try massaging it externally on affected areas (just slightly warmed ghee), or yes, incorporating it gradually in meals could help. But hey, if joint pain persists, don't neglect a medical evaluation.

On the skin and hair front, consuming it nourishes from within. It replenishes dhatus (tissues) and, because of its moisturizing properties, kind of indirectly benefits the skin and hair. There's a tradition of applying it externally too, especially for dry skin or hair mask treatments.

As for weight concerns, ghee really shines here. It's about quality fats, which are crucial for metabolism. It aids in balancing hormones and even boosts the digestive fire, or agni, which helps with effective fat metabolism. Still, portion control matters – stick to small, mindful amounts so you're not going overboard.

So, mixing it into rotis, rice or even your morning porridge – that’s a classical way! Ayurveda is all about balance. Regularly consuming ghee in moderate amounts paired with an active lifestyle is actually quite beneficial. Start slow, notice how your body feels, and adjust accordingly!

What are the benefits of eating desi ghee for overall health? - #10204

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