Desi Ghee- Real Truth,7 Reasons to Add It or Avoid It!
Is Desi ghee healthy or harmful? Discover the truth behind ghee’s golden goodness. Learn 7 powerful reasons why you should add or avoid ghee in your daily diet. Balanced, emotional, and science-backed.
Have you ever smelled the comforting aroma of ghee melting into warm rotis or sizzling in tadka? (comment below), Ghee is not just a kitchen staple in Indian homes—it’s a cultural legacy wrapped in golden richness. But lately, questions have swirled: Is ghee actually good for you? Or is it silently sabotaging your health?In this blog, let’s break the myths and uncover the real truth about ghee, step by step—emotionally, logically, and personally.
Table of Contents
Ghee is a form of clarified butter, made by simmering butter to remove water and milk solids. What remains is a rich, nutty-tasting golden fat that’s lactose-free and shelf-stable.
But beyond cooking, ghee has deep Ayurvedic roots and therapeutic value. Yet, as diets modernize, it faces blame in the fat-shaming world. Let’s separate fact from fiction.
Morning Ritual: Desi Cow Ghee on an Empty Stomach
In many Indian households, especially in villages, there’s a quiet but powerful tradition — a spoonful of desi cow ghee, taken first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.
And guess what? It’s not just an old ritual — it’s backed by both ancient wisdom and modern health science.
| Benefit | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Boosts Immunity | Packed with antioxidants and essential fats that strengthen your immune defense. |
| Improves Metabolism | Activates digestive enzymes, helping you burn calories more efficiently. |
| Enhances Gut Health | Butyrate in ghee heals gut lining and reduces inflammation. |
| Promotes Radiant Skin | Healthy fats hydrate your skin from the inside, giving a natural glow. |
| Lubricates Joints & Tissues | Keeps you agile, especially helpful in early morning stiffness. |
| Balances Hormones | Nourishes the endocrine system for better mood and cycle regulation. |
How to Take It Properly :
Take 1 tsp of A2 desi cow ghee (preferably organic and grass-fed).
Consume it on an empty stomach in the morning.
Follow with a glass of warm water to activate metabolism.
“Just one spoon of golden ghee in the morning, and you’re not only feeding your body—you’re fueling your soul.”
I still remember my dadi saying: “Ghee se chehra chamakta hai, pet saaf rehta hai, aur bimariyan door rehti hain.” And truly, since I reintroduced this habit, not only has my digestion improved, but people have actually complimented the glow on my face — something no cream ever gave.
1. Ghee is Rich in Healthy Fats (But Moderation Matters)
Ghee contains saturated fats, which are essential for brain function, hormone balance, and cellular repair. However, overconsumption can raise LDL cholesterol.
➡️ Ideal Portion: 1–2 teaspoons per day, depending on your calorie needs.
2. If You Have Heart Disease, Tread Carefully
Studies show excessive intake of saturated fats—like those in ghee—may aggravate heart conditions. If you have hypertension or high cholesterol, consult your doctor before daily use.
3. It’s Lactose & Casein Free — Good for Sensitive Stomachs
Because milk solids are removed, ghee is safer for people with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. Unlike butter, ghee won’t trigger bloating or indigestion in sensitive guts.
4. Ghee Enhances Nutrient Absorption
Vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble. Cooking vegetables in ghee actually helps your body absorb these nutrients better, boosting immunity and skin health.
5. Watch Out for Weight Gain
Ghee is calorie-dense—just one tablespoon has 120 calories. Mindless use in parathas or sweets can easily derail your weight goals.
| Ghee Comparison Table |
|---|
| 1 Tbsp Ghee = 120 calories |
| 1 Tbsp Olive Oil = 119 calories |
| 1 Tbsp Butter = 102 calories |
6. Ghee Can Heal the Gut
Ayurveda considers ghee a gut-soothing agent. It contains butyrate, a fatty acid that supports intestinal lining, reduces inflammation, and boosts digestion.
7. Commercial Ghee May Be Processed or Mixed
Not all ghee is created equal. Some commercial ghee brands mix in palm oil or use hydrogenated fats—bad news for your health. Always check the label and opt for organic, grass-fed ghee.
Scientific vs. Ayurvedic View on Ghee
| Perspective | Ghee Benefits | Caution Points |
|---|---|---|
| Ayurveda | Improves memory, immunity, digestion | Avoid in kapha-dominant or obese individuals |
| Modern Nutrition | Contains good fats, butyrate, vitamins | High in saturated fat; limit intake for heart patients |
As a child, my grandmother would lovingly pour a spoon of warm ghee over my dal-rice every afternoon. I never questioned it—until I grew older and the fear of fat crept in. I skipped ghee for years, until my digestion began to suffer. Reintroducing just a teaspoon of ghee daily brought surprising comfort to my gut and soul.
Sometimes, old wisdom needs a modern filter—but never a full delete.
FAQs
Q1: Is ghee better than oil for cooking?
Yes, for high-heat cooking. Ghee has a high smoke point (~250°C), making it more stable than olive or vegetable oil.
Q2: Can ghee cause acne or skin issues?
Excess fat intake, including ghee, may cause breakouts in oily-skin types. Try limiting and observe.
Q3: Is ghee keto-friendly?
Absolutely! Ghee fits perfectly into a ketogenic or low-carb diet, thanks to its fat profile.
Q4: Can I have ghee if I’m trying to lose weight?
Yes, but in moderation. Ghee can improve satiety and digestion, which supports weight loss when used smartly.
Q5: Best time to consume ghee?
Morning, empty stomach with warm water, or in meals for better digestion and energy.
Ghee is not your enemy
it’s your ally when used with intention. Embrace its golden warmth, but don’t let it flood your plate. Like most things in life, the magic lies in balance. Whether you spread it on toast or stir it in khichdi, make ghee a thoughtful part of your mindful eating journey.