Ghee has traditionally been considered one of the purest and most natural forms of dietary fats when prepared through authentic methods. Historical records even note that pure ghee could be sealed and stored underground for thousands of years without spoiling. Ayurvedic practices have long relied on ghee for various medicinal and therapeutic treatments. However, finding genuinely pure ghee in modern times has become difficult due to widespread commercial alterations. Authentic ghee is traditionally obtained exclusively by extracting cream from pure milk, churning it properly, and clarifying it. This naturally brings up the common question of whether smearing ghee on a daily flatbread is beneficial for health or if it contributes to weight gain. Expert Dr. Priyanka Rohatgi has shared detailed insights regarding this dietary practice.
Nutritional Composition Found in Pure Desi Ghee
According to Dr. Priyanka Rohatgi, pure desi ghee contains butyric acid, which functions as a short-chain fatty acid. Additionally, it contains lauric acid and capric acid, categorized as medium-chain fatty acids. Ghee also features omega-3 fatty acids, which are long-chain polyunsaturated fats widely regarded as highly beneficial for overall well-being. From a chemical structure perspective, these fats travel directly to the liver where they convert into usable energy rather than easily accumulating as stored body fat. Butyric acid digests very rapidly and assists in reducing inflammation within the intestines, which helps alleviate issues like constipation and bloating. Furthermore, the omega-3 fatty acids present in ghee play an effective role in lowering bad cholesterol levels.
Benefits of Consuming Ghee in Controlled Portions
The core question remains whether consuming ghee is genuinely advantageous. Dr. Priyanka Rohatgi affirms that ghee is entirely beneficial, provided it is consumed in restricted quantities and through the correct approach. If an individual eats roughly 1 to 2 spoonfuls daily, translating to about 5 to 10 grams, it proves advantageous for the body. Nevertheless, exceeding this recommended portion means consuming excess fat, which eventually deposits inside the liver and triggers unwanted weight gain and obesity.
Risks Associated With Overeating and Excessive Heating
Consuming ghee in large quantities not only accelerates weight gain but also triggers multiple secondary health complications. Moreover, exposing ghee to excessive heat causes its internal molecular chains to fracture. The moment these chains break, oxygen occupies the vacant space, initiating the oxidation of the ghee and triggering thermal degradation. During this chemical breakdown, fat molecules fracture into hazardous free radicals, generating toxic compounds like peroxides and aldehydes within the product. At this stage, the natural properties of the ghee are effectively destroyed. Consuming such altered fat induces oxidative stress within cellular structures, increases intestinal inflammation, and raises blood cholesterol levels. Therefore, ghee should never be subjected to intense or excessive heating.
Guidelines for Combining Ghee With Roti
Regarding whether one should combine ghee with roti, Dr. Priyanka Rohatgi notes that there is no inherent issue with the practice, provided the daily intake stays within the 5 to 10-gram limit. Applying this specific amount to flatbread creates no adverse effects, whereas exceeding this limit or consuming overheated ghee will undeniably cause weight gain and related illnesses. Therefore, if someone wishes to eat ghee alongside roti, the ghee should not be overheated and must be kept strictly moderate. The ideal method is to simply place a small amount of ghee on top of a freshly prepared warm roti.
