Introduction

As I mentioned in a previous article, I have been experimenting with various ways to reduce carbohydrate intake and instead fuel my body with quality fats to improve productivity and health. One significant change has been replacing my breakfast (such as rice, bread, bagels, etc.) with coffee made with ghee (bulletproof coffee). This shift has noticeably sharpened my mind from morning till noon and made my body feel lighter. While individual results may vary, I have found this dietary change to be quite beneficial. In addition to breakfast, I have also started using ghee in various dishes instead of the vegetable oils I used to rely on.

Although I feel a bit awkward discussing food on a tech media platform like Dev.to, in this article, I would like to briefly introduce my favourite ingredient, ghee.

What is Ghee?

First, let me briefly explain ghee for those who may not be familiar with it.

Ghee is a type of clarified butter that originated in India, made from cow's milk. It is said to have been used for the first time in ancient India and has been widely utilized for both culinary and medicinal purposes. In ancient India, cows were considered sacred, and ghee made from their milk was a valuable commodity. While similar to butter, ghee is made by removing impurities from butter, leaving only high-quality fats. This makes ghee more resistant to oxidation, allowing it to be stored at room temperature outside of hot summer months without spoiling.

Additionally, in Indian Ayurvedic medicine, ghee is regarded as a food that enhances "Ojas" (the source of vitality and strength). It is used not only for regular dietary purposes but also for various treatments, such as skin application and burn treatment.

From ancient times to the present, ghee has remained a central part of Indian culinary and health practices due to its rich history and numerous benefits. It is widely used and cherished in everyday life for food, beauty, and medical purposes.

Benefits of Ghee

Next, I will summarize the well-known benefits of ghee based on my research. I must emphasize that I am not a nutrition expert, so please consider this as an amateur's summary of information (for detailed information, please do your own research).

• Promotes Digestion
  Ghee is known to aid digestion by enhancing the function of the digestive organs and helping to alleviate indigestion and constipation.

• Antioxidant Properties
  Ghee is rich in antioxidants like vitamins A and E, giving it strong antioxidant properties. These help delay cell aging and maintain overall health.

• Boosts Immunity
  Ghee is also believed to boost immunity. In Ayurveda, ghee is thought to increase "Ojas", which enhances the body's resistance to infections and diseases.

• Rich in Vitamins A, E, and K
  Ghee is rich in vitamins A, E, and K. Vitamin A supports vision and skin health, vitamin E protects cells with its antioxidant properties, and vitamin K aids in blood coagulation and bone health.

• High in Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCTs)
  Ghee contains MCTs, which are quickly converted into energy, helping to reduce fat accumulation. MCTs are beneficial for weight management and maintaining energy levels.

---

In summary, ghee is a highly beneficial food with numerous health advantages. Regular consumption can improve overall health and well-being.

Tip: Cautions with Ghee

While I have highlighted the benefits of ghee, it is important to consider some cautionary points. First, ghee is very high in calories, so excessive consumption can lead to weight gain. Also, be mindful of food pairings. Consuming ghee with high-carbohydrate foods like rice or pasta can result in unused fats being stored as triglycerides, leading to increased levels of body fat.

Additionally, ghee contains a high amount of saturated fats, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases if consumed in excess. People with high cholesterol or existing heart disease risks should exercise caution.

By keeping these points in mind and consuming ghee in moderation as part of a balanced diet, you can enjoy its numerous health benefits responsibly.

Usage Examples of Ghee

Firstly, ghee is very stable at high temperatures, making it ideal for frying and sautéing. Unlike many other oils and butters that oxidize and turn into harmful substances when cooked at high temperatures, ghee remains stable due to its structure. This is considered a significant health advantage over other oils. Since learning this, I have started using ghee for most of my frying and sautéing needs.

In general, ghee is popular not only for frying and sautéing but also for spreading on toast and adding to soups like curry.

Personally, my favourite use of ghee is replacing my breakfast with bulletproof coffee.

The reasons for this include the fact that the medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) in ghee are quickly converted into energy, providing an energy boost right from the morning. Ghee also aids in digestion and, unlike meals with carbohydrates like bread and rice, helps to maintain stable blood sugar levels, thereby keeping my concentration high throughout the morning.

My method involves adding 2-3 tablespoons of ghee and about 1 tablespoon of coconut oil to coffee and hot water. As variations, I sometimes drink it with just hot water or add it to miso soup.

Previously, I often had bagels, burgers from fast food restaurants, or pancakes for breakfast, but after experimentally replacing them with ghee bulletproof coffee, I noticed a significant difference in mental clarity and concentration from morning till noon. Compared to having a heavy breakfast, I also felt lighter and more refreshed. While individual results may vary, I believe it is worth trying to see if you notice any positive changes.

Conclusion

Ghee has remained central to Indian cuisine and health practices from ancient India to the present day due to its rich history and diverse benefits. With numerous health benefits such as promoting digestion, possessing antioxidant properties, boosting the immune system, and being rich in nutrients, ghee can enhance overall health and well-being when consumed regularly.

Personally, I have experienced increased energy levels, sustained concentration, and a sense of lightness by replacing my breakfast with bulletproof coffee. Additionally, ghee remains stable at high temperatures, making it suitable for various culinary uses.

Of course, the compatibility with ingredients and individual differences mean that not everyone will experience the same effects. However, if you are interested, I encourage you to try it and observe any changes in your own health and mood. It might bring a new wave of health benefits to your diet.

Lastly, I am not a nutrition expert, so I recommend doing your own research for more detailed information. I hope that my experiences and insights can be of some help to your health and dietary habits.

Thank you for reading!