One afternoon, right after a rather heavy lunch, my grandmother called me to the kitchen. Lovingly, she pressed a glass of her homemade buttermilk infused with fresh coriander and a hint of green chili into my hands. “This will help you digest that feast,” she said with a wink. Wow! It tasted yummy! But then, I was unaware of how buttermilk benefits my health.
Yes! Our ‘desi chaas’ or buttermilk possess ample probiotics that help fight fatigue and dehydration while keeping them at bay, and it’s perfect for all seasons. This magic drink is just perfect for maintaining healthy digestion and also complements your weight loss plans!
So, if one needs a sweet way of bettering health, here are the compelling reasons why buttermilk should be part of your diet today. Trust me, once you make this part of your life, you never want to step back!
What Exactly Is Buttermilk?
My family always had a jug of refreshing buttermilk in the fridge when I was growing up. But what exactly is it? Buttermilk is a fermented dairy product, and do not get confused by its name; it contains no butter!
- This light and frothy drink is created from the sour milk obtained after churning the fermented milk to separate butter from it. What’s left of the curd milk is that liquid, which is buttermilk.
- It is extremely rich in calcium, proteins, vitamins and a gold mine of very useful beneficial bacteria that do fantastic jobs in our guts.
- If talking about buttermilk benefits, whenever I felt a bit bloated after a spicy meal, my mother would pour a tall glass of buttermilk to soothe gastrointestinal issues. And she was right! The probiotic properties of buttermilk support intestinal health, helping to keep everything running smoothly.
- Chaas is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins C and protein, which will strengthen our immunity. In addition, it has low-fat content, and for those trying to get rid of a little excess without sacrificing flavor, this is a rather good choice.
- According to a study by the National Library of Medicine, Buttermilk contains a unique component, the milk fat globule membrane (MFGM), with bioactive compounds that have positive health effects like antitumor or cholesterol-lowering impact.
- In fact, I often dilute yogurt with water and churn it at home, adding a sprinkle of salt or cumin for flavor. Every sip reminds me that I’m not just drinking; I’m nourishing my body with something that has been cherished for generations.
If you haven’t yet included the benefits of chaas (buttermilk) in your routine, I highly recommend you do! It’s a simple, healthy addition for which your taste buds and body will thank you.
10 Must-Have Buttermilk Benefits For Your Health
But growing up in an Indian household as a child, Chaas, or buttermilk, was so much more than just a drink-it was almost our family’s health elixir. So, here are the top ten advantages of drinking buttermilk:
1. It Calms The Digestion
This potion works wonders after a heavy meal, especially something spicy or rich, like butter chicken or biryani. Whenever I overindulge, buttermilk with a hint of cumin feels like magic.
This probiotic weight loss drink teems with lactic acid bacteria; hence, it balances your gut with healthy dosages of good bacteria, thereby allowing your body to break it down easily.
It’s what helps you avoid a bloated and uncomfortable feeling. For Indians who love our masalas, it’s almost a digestive blessing!
2. Assists In Boosting Immunity
I still remember that my grandma used to tell me, “Beta, drink buttermilk, it will keep you strong!” And she was absolutely right! Buttermilk is full of vitamins and good bacteria that fortify our immune system.
Probiotics or good bacteria in buttermilk help fortify your gut. Approx. 70% of our immune cells are situated in the gut. Hence, by making the gut healthy, buttermilk indirectly supports the immune system. This, in turn, makes it easy for the body to ward off infections.
Whenever I am a bit off, a glass of buttermilk sprinkled with some ginger or turmeric serves as a comforting immunity booster. It’s a miniature power-up for our bodies, all thanks to healthy bacteria in every glass.
3. Buttermilk Benefits In Hydration And Cooling
Oh, be honest: summers in India are brutal, and one should always know how to stay hydrated. This chilled glass of buttermilk is the savior on those hot days. Refreshing, light, and instantly cooling.
It’s full of electrolytes like potassium and replenishes the lost natural salts of the body through sweat. Buttermilk hydrates without loading you up on sugar, something that sugary sodas don’t do. Adding a few curry leaves or a dash of rock salt does the trick.
4. Good For Weight Management
My fitness-conscious friends always ask, “Isn’t buttermilk fattening?” And I just smile. Buttermilk is low in fat yet full of nutrients. So, yes, you can also enjoy the benefits of buttermilk for weight loss!
Buttermilk is amazingly filling due to the high protein content that helps suppress the urge for more and keeps you feeling satisfied for longer.
According to the Ministry Of Ayush, if you are trying to lose weight and build muscles, perhaps you should consider including buttermilk in your daily diet.
So, if you want to keep an eye on your waistline, substitute a high-calorie drink with buttermilk. It is delicious, filling, and low in calories- a double winner! It fills you up without weighing you down. I especially find it very helpful after a workout. It’s like getting a mini-meal without guilt.
5. Buttermilk Benefits Your Bones And Teeth
Milk wasn’t always my favorite either when I was growing up unless it came with chocolate syrup! But buttermilk? That was an exception. It is a good source of calcium, which has several benefits for bones and teeth.
Forget chalky calcium supplements! According to the U.S. Department Of Agriculture, buttermilk provides about 284 mg of calcium per cup (nearly 30% of your daily need).
Added benefits of chaas: it is easier to digest than milk. Whether it is young or getting up there in years, you can get your daily serving of calcium by drinking just a glass of buttermilk.
6. Relief From Acidity And Heartburn
Ever had that burning in the chest after a too-spicy meal? This is where buttermilk comes in! The acidity-neutralizing cooling properties present in buttermilk provide a sure relief from acidity and heartburn.
Buttermilk tends to be alkaline in itself; it will counterbalance your stomach’s acidic disposition. If you suffer much from heartburn, chances are that you just want some buttermilk afterward in your meals.
To this, add a bit of roasted cumin and a rock salt pinch, too, and it is then excellent. After eating something spicy that has upset my stomach, I swear a glass of chaas is instant relief!
7. Buttermilk Benefits Skin And Hair
Buttermilk is rich in probiotics, which do wonders for the skin, and it is packed with vitamins that keep hair strong and shiny. It’s like natural beauty in a glass- no fancy serum required!
Buttermilk comprises vitamins B12 and biotin that assist in healthy skin and lustrous hair. Biotin, in the category of B vitamins, strengthens the hair follicles. Lactic acid lightens the skin naturally. It’s not surprising it remains the first choice for treatments related to beauty.
Continuous intake of buttermilk provides that glow inside, and sometimes, I even use it as my homemade face mask to obtain some shine naturally.
8. Regulates Blood Pressure
Buttermilk is a gentle ally for anybody who is managing blood pressure since it is low in fat and rich in potassium, which helps control the blood pressure level without taking much medicine.
Additionally, its potassium content relaxes the blood vessel walls and reduces blood pressure. Low sodium, this drink helps heart health for anyone with hypertension.
My dad, who always has an eye on his BP, keeps telling me that his routine of drinking a glassful of buttermilk every day has helped keep his figures stable. It’s a glass full of heart health!
9. Reduces Tiredness
Ever had that mid-afternoon lag? That is when I reach out for a glass of buttermilk. Research by the National Institutes Of Health says that buttermilk is highly hydrating and a good energy source.
High in electrolytes and potassium content that balances up the hydration level and causes less fatigue; it does perk you up, gives you energy without that terrible crash of caffeine, and is way healthier – so, no more waking up at 2 AM.
A hint of ginger or mint makes it something of a treat, making my energy rise so I feel refreshed as I tackle the rest of the day.
10. Buttermilk Benefits In Lowering Cholesterol Levels
That also surprised me: buttermilk is known to decrease levels of cholesterol. Bioactive agents that bind with cholesterol not letting it be absorbed much by the intestines, are present in buttermilk.
Consumption of buttermilk on a daily basis supports your heart health and reduces any cardiovascular disease.
My nani has always been healthy with diet and consumes at least a glass of it every day along with lunch. She calls it “tasty therapy” for her heart health and finds immense pleasure in sharing such information with others.
Well, that makes buttermilk a healthy tonic indeed with the beautiful flavor. So next time you get this urge to gulp up something refreshing, forget the sodas and grab the buttermilk glass for this time. Add in a couple of spices, or take it straight and sip yourself to the better half of health.
My Go-To Masala Chaas Recipe From Fitelo!
I’ve tried this masala chaas recipe by Fitelo, and let me tell you—it turned out absolutely delicious and just the right balance of flavors! It’s so refreshing and easy to make that I had to share it with you. I also included the amazing buttermilk benefits in my liquid diet for weight loss and getting in shape!
If you’re looking for a quick, cooling drink that’s loaded with flavor, you’ll love this one. Give it a try, and thank me later!
Creative Ways To Use Buttermilk For Extra Benefits!
Here are a few fun and handy ways to use up the remaining buttermilk you happen to have.
1. Tenderize Meat: Acid in buttermilk softens proteins so the meat becomes tender and moist. Simply marinate it for a few hours-tummy-filling kebabs melt in the mouth!
2. Best For Baking: The buttermilk added to cakes and pancakes would make them fluffy and light. The acidity would react with baking soda for that soft, airy texture. I swear by it for perfect pancakes!
3. Skin Brightener: This contains a lot of lactic acid, so it is perfect as a natural exfoliator. Dab some on, let it sit there for 10–15 minutes, and rinse for smooth skin! Also, you always have an option to add this elixir to your diet plan for glowing skin!
4. Fluffy Omelets: Add a dash of buttermilk to the eggs before making omelets. Such a perfect, light way to have breakfast when you’re at home and want it.
5. Sunburn Soother: Buttermilk benefits sunburns by having a cooling effect. Mix it with some honey and apply it to the area for instant relief!
6. DIY Hair Conditioner: Massage buttermilk into the scalp for 20 minutes and then wash it out. This can add an instant shine and softness to your hair!
7. Sour Cream Substitute: Running low on sour cream? Buttermilk is a great substitute in recipes. Rich, creamy, and tart, it’s excellent with curries and dips.
8. Natural Fertilizer: Mix buttermilk with water and spread the liquid around your plants. Probiotics are natural additives to the soil. Use this to have a healthy garden.
There you have it—one big range of uses beyond simply sipping it as refreshing water! Try some out, and see how that simple ingredient can simplify and make life a bit brighter.
The Final Sip!
You see, buttermilk is not only a refreshing summer drink; it’s a multitasker. It works for you in various ways, from aiding digestion to adding glow to your skin.
I just love how easily something this simple and accessible can impact our daily lives, whether it is in the kitchen, for skincare, or even for gardening in your backyard. If you haven’t made buttermilk a regular part of your routine, try it—you might be surprised by how much it can add to your day!
I’ve personally found that even a small glass after a meal can make a difference, helping me feel light and refreshed, and knowing it’s bringing all these benefits just makes it even better.
If you have any doubts about adding buttermilk benefits to your regular diet, connect with Fitelo experts. They can help you achieve your health goals with a personalized diet plan.
So go ahead, pour yourself a glass, or whip up a batch for some tasty recipes. Let buttermilk do its magic, and trust me, you’ll wonder how you ever went without it!
How To Lose Weight Without Diet And Exercise – Dietitian Mac Singh
Here are six practical steps you can include in your lifestyle with which you will see positive results in weight loss, skin and hair, energy levels, and overall health. Check out this video by Dietitian Mac Singh to know more:
Parth, a salesman, was concerned about his weight gain and stress problems. When nothing worked out, he reached Fitelo, and with our experts’ help, he lost 8 Kg in just 22 days, and his stress levels were also controlled. Read Parth’s transformation story and learn how the customized diet plan of the Fitelo dietician helped him to achieve his health goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Good To Drink Buttermilk Daily?
Yes, it is indeed good to drink buttermilk every day. The advantages of drinking buttermilk are that it helps digest food better, hydrates the body, and gives a good dose of probiotics for the support of gut health. Moreover, it has less fat content, making it a very light and nutritious addition to your routine.
Is Buttermilk Better Than Curd?
Yes, buttermilk may be better than curd in some ways! Lighter, easier to digest, and lower in fat, it is excellent for hydration and digestion. And though both are rich in probiotics, the diluted version of buttermilk can be very cooling and refreshing, perfect for a scorching day.
Who Should Not Drink Buttermilk?
People with lactose intolerance should avoid buttermilk, as it can cause digestive discomfort. Additionally, those with a sensitive stomach or acid reflux might find buttermilk too acidic. If you’re prone to colds or respiratory issues, it’s best to limit buttermilk in colder weather, as it can increase mucus production.
What Are Top Buttermilk Benefits For Health?
Buttermilk provides several health benefits: it facilitates digestion, hydrates the body, and is rich in probiotics that help support gut health. It’s also low in fat, which makes it ideal for weight management, and rich in calcium, which helps strengthen bones.
What Not To Eat With Buttermilk?
Do not combine buttermilk with rich, spicy, or greasy food items because it creates problems in digestion and irritation. Combining buttermilk with fruits, particularly citrus fruits, is not a good idea as well since it curdles first and then creates problems with digestion.
Also, avoid eating buttermilk along with foods that contain much protein, such as meat, so that the body will digest it well.
Does Buttermilk Burn Fat?
Buttermilk helps in weight management but does not burn fat. However, the low-calorie and low-fat levels enhance the feeling of fullness, thus having little or no chance of overeating. Moreover, it has been proven that its probiotic content increases gut health, which is linked to better metabolism and total weight management.
Contact Us Today
Get in touch with our expert team at Fitelo to kick-start your transformative journey! Let us guide you toward your weight loss goals and help you cultivate sustainable and healthy eating habits. So contact us today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you with Fitelo!
Disclaimer
This blog was written to help you make healthy and better food choices. So, be aware and take care. The vital thing to consider is your health before starting a restrictive diet. Therefore, before starting, always seek advice from a doctor/dietitian if you have any concerns.
Eat Healthy, Live Healthy. Enjoy a long, happy life.
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