Well, it’s true that the name ‘buttermilk’ can be quite misleading! There isn’t really any real ‘butter’ in buttermilk and it is just a fermented dairy product that’s actually the leftover liquid once butter is churned out of whole milk. A nutritious drink that buttermilk is, a 250ml cup of cultured buttermilk gives you approximately 8g of protein, 12g of carbohydrates with 22% calcium, 22% Vitamin B12, 29% Riboflavin and 16% of DV or your daily requirement. Buttermilk ( or chaas as it is popularly called) when made and consumed the Indian style, is a refreshing summer cooler made with yogurt and it can be either salted chaas or masala chaas. No matter what variety of buttermilk you consume, the benefits of buttermilk cannot be underestimated. Check out some of the benefits and an easy recipe here:
BENEFITS OF DRINKING BUTTERMILK
Good For Digestion: It is easier on your digestive system, as compared to other dairy products, especially if you are lactose intolerant. Buttermilk contains lactic acid that makes it easier to digest the lactose content. However it is important to ensure that the buttermilk is a product of live cultures and is pasteurized.
Promotes Bone Health: Buttermilk is loaded with calcium, phosphorus and Vitamin D that help boost your bone health and prevent degeneration of bones. Thus, regular intake of buttermilk can be associated with strong bones.
Treats Periodontitis: Consumption of calcium-enriched dairy products helps improve your oral health and reduce the symptoms of periodontitis, a condition that involves inflammation of gums.
Boosts Cardiac Health: Intake of buttermilk is also known to reduce cholesterol levels. This is on account of the presence of sphingolipid compounds present in this refreshing drink. It is also known to help in lowering blood pressure levels, thus promoting better cardiac health. READ MORE – Peppermint Hair water – clear dandruff and boost hair growth
BUTTERMILK RECIPE for weight loss and digestion
LIST OF INGREDIENTS:
- Curd or yogurt- 1 ½ cup
- Cumin powder (roasted)- ½ tsp
- Pink salt- a pinch (as required)
- Ice cubes- 4 or 5
- Water- 1 cup
- Mint leaves or coriander leaves- a few (for garnishing)
INSTRUCTIONS
Put all the ingredients together (leaving out the coriander/ mint leaves) in a blender jar. Blend well for a few seconds and see if the mixture is frothy. Pour in a glass and garnish. Drink immediately or put in the refrigerator for a super-chilled chaas experience.
Buttermilk is thus a healthier alternative to many other beverages and can even serve as a dinner substitute on days you wish to go light on your night-time meal. It is a relaxing drink that you can enjoy during the hot summers. READ MORE – TURMERIC WATER benefits – for weight loss, clear skin, and more
