Masterchef India semifinalist Kriti Dhiman, who consumes ghee water - a teaspoon of ghee in a cup of warm water - on an empty stomach every morning, claims to have noticed the following changes: *My skin has been better than ever. It’s clearer, brighter, and feels hydrated. Ghee is enriched with essential fatty acids and antioxidants. So, it helps in the overall well-being of your skin *I feel a slight change in the quality of my hair. My scalp feels conditioned; maybe it will be more effective if I keep consuming it longer. *It’s a natural laxative, so it helps your gut by regulating bowel movements. *Consuming ghee has not caused me any weight gain or weight loss. *Consuming this food on an empty stomach also helped to reduce the sugar spike we get from having breakfast. We turned to nutrition experts to determine if it worked. Jinal Patel, dietitian, Zynova Shalby Hospital Mumbai, said drinking ghee can help improve stomach-related issues like gas, indigestion, bloating, or constipation. "Ghee water is quite popular among those aiming to lose weight. Ghee is also important for increasing skin collagen and boosting immunity and energy. Though ghee is beneficial, have it in moderation," said Patel. However, Dr Birali Swetha, chief dietician, Gleneagles Aware Hospital, LB Nagar, Hyderabad said that while consuming ghee with warm water on an empty stomach is a popular Ayurvedic practice, "there is limited scientific evidence to support its claimed benefits". "Traditionally, it is believed to improve digestion, promote gut health, and support regular bowel movements, mainly due to the presence of butyric acid and healthy fats in ghee. Butyric acid is known to support gut cells and may offer anti-inflammatory benefits, potentially beneficial for digestive health. In clinical research, however, there is minimal direct evidence proving that ghee with warm water enhances digestion or has measurable effects when consumed on an empty stomach," said Dr Birali. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Masterchef Kriti Dhiman (@kriti_kaur_dhiman) Also, ghee contains saturated fats, which should be consumed cautiously, particularly by individuals with high cholesterol or cardiovascular concerns. "While fats play a role in nutrient absorption and energy balance, overconsumption can lead to unwanted weight gain and lipid imbalances," said Dr Birali. While there are anecdotal benefits, consuming ghee with water lacks robust medical evidence. For individuals considering this, it is advisable to do so in moderation and consult a doctor to ensure it aligns with their health profile. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
