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In Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and several other parts of India, buttermilk is a staple served with summer meals. Also referred to as chaas, the blend of curd and water topped with fresh coriander leaves and spices is considered healthy not just for the gut but also to experience respite from the heat.
When the mercury continues to rise, this one desi beverage is served as an elixir to find relief from the symptoms of heat strokes. This drink is also known to complement spicy and fried foods on your plate. If your mother and grandmother did not convince you to have it every day, the benefits mentioned below will do the job.
Loaded With Nutrients
Buttermilk is a rich source of phosphorus, calcium, vitamin B12, and vitamin B2. It has some amount of protein as well. A 2013 study in Nutrients, mentioned by the National Institutes of Health, indicated that buttermilk and other dairy products might boost bone health. It is also associated with giving a boost of energy and lending a hand in keeping the nervous system healthy and functioning.
Might Lower Blood Pressure
Do you struggle with high blood pressure and anxiety? Bioactive peptides in buttermilk and a few other dairy products might help you keep hypertension in check. A 2014 report published in Nutrition and mentioned in the National Library of Medicine says that the desi beverage has a positive impact on BP levels as it is loaded with potassium. If you keep the amount of salt in it low and consume it fresh during lunch, you will soon start experiencing a boost in your overall well-being.
Keep Cholesterol In Check
A trial study published in the NIH, sourced from Nutrition, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases: NMCD, concluded that buttermilk might help reduce cholesterol levels in both men and women. It works by preventing the absorption of cholesterol by the intestine. Thus, drinking it every day will help you feel lighter and more energetic rather than the usual lethargy.
Aids Digestion
Molecular Nutrition & Food Research study mentioned in the NIH in 2023 pointed out that drinking buttermilk can boost the gut microbiome. It has a cooling effect on the body, which is why it might soothe the stomach lining and provide relief from heartburn and acidity. If you are lactose intolerant, buttermilk might not be the drink for you, but the amount of lactose is less in it because of fermentation, so you might want to drink it in moderation.
Hydrates The Body
Buttermilk has lactic acid that can improve digestion, and its high water content, along with electrolytes, can boost hydration. As mentioned above, it is an essential drink during hot weather to keep your body cool. You can drink it before and after a workout to replenish the moisture lost while sweating.
Disclaimer: If you are suffering from any digestive issues, bone ailments, or heat stroke, you must consult a physician. Alone, buttermilk cannot treat conditions. It is helpful when coupled with the right diet, exercise routine, and medication.
