Golden truth about ghee

The traditional Indian household staple is once again catching the internet's eye. While some say it's a fat burner and is good for overall well-being, others find it fattening and harmful for health. Amid the social media debate, experts weigh in on its consumption

- Rewati Karan

SOCIAL MEDIA IS replete with suggestions about what's good for your health and what's not, especially when it comes to your diet. If a certain food choice works for somebody, he or she shares ideas around it and many people tend to follow them without thinking of their repercussions or health aspects scientifically. One such viral trend is about ghee.

While some people have endorsed the traditional Indian household staple, calling it a fat burner, others warn against the high concentration of saturated fat in ghee, which may lead to weight gain and be considered harmful for the body and for cardiovascular health. Let us hear it from the experts themselves.

Ghee is packed with nutrients like fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K), antioxidants, and unique fatty acids that offer a range of health benefits. Beyond being a versatile cooking medium with a high smoke point, ghee supports digestion, immunity, and even cognitive health.

"Medium-chain fatty acids in ghee, particularly butyric acid, act as lubricants for the digestive tract, reducing constipation and strengthening gut health," says Ritika Samaddar, regional head, south zone, nutrition and dietetics at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, Delhi. Additionally, the conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) in ghee is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding in reducing inflammation and boosting immunity.

Experts also point to ghee's crucial role in early development. "Ghee is vital for neuronal development and plays an important role in the lubrication of joints, particularly during the growth years," explains Dr LK Jha, associate director and head, cardiology, Asian Hospital, Faridabad.