Ghee, rich in antioxidants, may help protect the skin and promote a youthful complexion, says nutritionist Juhi Arora. She suggests consuming a spoonful of ghee with warm water each morning for two months to improve skin and gut health.
Dt Suhani Seth Agarwal, head of dietetics at Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital, Noida, provides insights on this claim.
What are benefits of having ghee with water?
She said, “If you have this regularly for two months, I can say with a guarantee that you will stop using your expensive skincare products and collagen supplements. When we wake up every morning, our body needs healthy fat on an empty stomach. The best way to do this? By giving your body the exact amount of good fat it needs, and that is nothing but one teaspoon of ghee.”
Juhi added, “Drink this ghee in a glass of warm water on an empty stomach in the morning to improve your skin health and your gut health. This tip is especially for brides who want that pre-wedding glow as well as people who have skin-related allergies.”
Is having ghee 1st thing in morning good for skin?
Dt Suhani Seth Agarwal states that although consuming warm water with ghee (clarified butter) is popular, there is limited scientific evidence to support its benefits for gut health and skin problems.
She said, “Ghee does contain butyric acid, which may support gut health by nourishing intestinal cells and potentially reducing inflammation. It also contains fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) that can benefit skin health when consumed in moderation. Some proponents suggest that this combination might help with digestion, support elimination, and contribute to a healthy gut microbiome.”
Suhani added, “However, there's insufficient clinical evidence to support the claim that this specific combination (1 tbsp ghee in warm water) improves gut health or resolves skin issues. The benefits attributed to this practice haven't been thoroughly validated by modern medical research. What works for one person may not work for another due to individual differences in metabolism, gut flora, and health conditions.” She added that proper hydration, a nutrient-rich diet, sun protection, and appropriate skin care are recommended for skin health.
Is ghee on empty stomach good for gut health?
Suhani emphasized that evidence-based strategies for gut health include consuming sufficient fiber and probiotics, staying hydrated, and maintaining a balanced diet.
She also advised, "If you have ongoing gut or skin issues, it's better to consult a healthcare professional instead of solely relying on traditional remedies. They can offer tailored guidance based on your individual health needs."
Source: Hindustan Times
Bd-pratidin English/ Afia
