Ever wondered why ghee is so important in roti? In Indian households, a generous amount of ghee is poured on freshly baked roti – it’s a tradition that’s been passed down for generations. But is it just a cultural habit, or does this practice have some hidden health benefits?
Let’s delve deeper and find out! The practice of eating with hands while sitting on the floor is known to improve digestion and awareness about portion sizes. Similarly, applying ghee on rotis doesn’t just help keep them soft. It’s all about harnessing the power of this healthy fat.
The great debate on ghee: Healthy or sham?
The health benefits of ghee have been debated for some years now. Some people consider it unhealthy due to its high fat content. But don’t worry! We are here to shed some light on this confusion.
Healthy fats are essential macronutrients just like carbohydrates and protein. They play a key role in building strong bones and muscles, which contribute to overall health. Ghee is a great source of these healthy fats, making it a valuable addition to your diet.
According to Ayurveda, ghee acts as a catalyst, promoting digestion and metabolism. It is also believed to balance the body’s energies (pitta, vata and kapha). Nutritionist Shilpa Arora emphasises the presence of fat-soluble vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in ghee. These contribute to weight management, hormonal balance, healthy cholesterol levels and protection from free radical damage.
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Why should this be on your roti? Benefits of applying ghee on roti? Can you eat roti with ghee every day?
Shilpa Arora strongly recommends adding ghee to your daily roti. There are two main reasons for this:
1. Blood sugar control:
Rotis are rich in starch, which can increase blood sugar levels. However, Shilpa says that consuming rotis with protein and healthy fats (like ghee) helps in controlling blood sugar levels.
2. Better absorption of nutrients:
Applying ghee on roti leads to better absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and minerals present in wheat flour.
Shilpa concludes, “Eating one roti with ghee is better than eating two rotis without ghee.”
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Remember, moderation is key! Ghee has many benefits, but excessive consumption of it can be harmful.
So, the next time you take a spoonful of ghee, do so with confidence! This age-old tradition is not just about taste, but also about harnessing the power of healthy fats .
