Beneficial effects of Ghee on gastrointestinal health

The scientific perspective on dairy fats, specifically ghee, is evolving as new research have highlighted their potential health benefits, contrasting previous negative associations. Ghee, a clarified butter with significant cultural and medicinal importance in India, is extensively documented in Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medicine system, which outlines its therapeutic potential.

A review of Ayurveda literature spanning over 3000 years highlighted 774 references mentioned about beneficial effects of ghee and categorized them into 15 health benefit clusters. In contrast, modern studies (1990-2023) primarily focussed on ghee’s effects on cardiovascular health, wound healing, and skin health. Meanwhile, Ayurveda emphasizes cognitive benefits, gastrointestinal health, and nourishment, areas increasingly relevant due to aging populations and rising chronic diseases. 

Several Ayurveda research have shown light at the favorable effects of ghee on the gastrointestinal (GI) health. This has been validated by a study which revealed that ghee may help regulate postprandial glycemic levels when used in cooking rice. Although studies on ghee's impact on GI health are limited, the fatty acids in ghee have been shown to improve digestion and gut health. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) promote digestion, strengthen the intestinal barrier, and enhance gut immunity. Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs), Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), SCFAs, and n-3 PUFAs not only provide energy but also promote satiety, potentially helping to limit calorie intake.  Additionally, the synergistic effects of these fatty acids can further improve gut health, as CLAs foster the production of SCFAs by gut microbiota.

Source: Kataria D, Singh G. Health benefits of ghee: Review of Ayurveda and modern science perspectives. J Ayurveda Integr Med. 2024 Jan-Feb;15(1):100819. doi: 10.1016/j.jaim.2023.100819. Epub 2024 Jan 5. PMID: 38181707; PMCID: PMC10789628.