Ghee tea vs Ghee coffee: Know the health benefits

Gone are the days when one would squirm at the thought of ghee in one’s morning beverage. Be it a coffee-lover or a tea enthusiast, a spoonful of ghee to your morning drink can do wonders. However, what if you have a choice between ghee coffee and ghee tea. Both these drinks come with their own set of benefits, as well as drawbacks. Ghee coffee has become a popular beverage for some time now, with the keto-followers swearing by this bulletproof version of coffee. It is great for weight management, as well as other benefits. However, ghee tea also seems to have joined the list of healthy drinks. Tea laced with ghee is good for digestion as well as gut health. What’s more? Both of these can be made in a jiffy, but need to be consumed in moderation.

What is ghee tea?

Ghee tea is a beverage that combines tea, which is usually black or green tea, with a spoonful of ghee or clarified butter. “It is inspired by traditional Tibetan butter tea, which is made by blending tea with yak butter and salt,” explains dietitian Kejal Shah. Not only does this concoction make your tea creamy, but it is also rich in healthy fats. A study published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, associates the use of ghee with better cardiovascular health, wound healing and skin health.

What is ghee coffee?

Ghee coffee is a variation of bulletproof coffee, which involves blending coffee with fats like ghee (clarified butter) and sometimes coconut oil or MCT oil. This coffee is made with a spoonful of ghee combined with coffee and hot water. A study, published in Current Developments in Nutrition, investigated the effect of a high-fat coffee beverage, such as bulletproof coffee or ghee coffee. It was found that ghee coffee or bulletproof coffee had greater satisfaction and better cognitive function.

Check out a first-hand experience of ghee coffee, and how it can help you.

What are the benefits of ghee tea?

Here are the health benefits of ghee tea:

1. Better digestion

Ghee contains healthy fats, vitamins, and beneficial compounds, while tea provides antioxidants. This combination may promote digestive health and overall well-being. Check out the other benefits of drinking ghee with warm water, first thing in the morning.

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2. Promotes bowel movement

Ghee is rich in butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that helps feed gut health by preserving the gut lining and reducing inflammation. This may promote bowel movement regularity. You can even add milk to your tea here. Milk and ghee are a perfect combination to avoid constipation. Here are some other home remedies for constipation for you to try out.

3. It helps with period pain

The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in ghee may help lower the intensity of menstrual cramps by reducing inflammation. One teaspoon of ghee in your tea, or along with your meals can do wonders for your period pain, as well as help make your periods regular. Check out the other foods to treat period pain.

4. Helps improve cholesterol

Ghee’s butyric acid and triglycerides help mobilise body fats and push them out of the system, contributing to increased good cholesterol levels. A study, published by the US Agricultural Research, states that drinking tea can contribute to lowering low-density lipoprotein, and bad cholesterol.

5. Natural lubricant

Ghee acts as a natural lubricant, nourishing bones, joints, and muscles, which can help keep you active in old age. Tea has a lot of benefits for arthritis patients when it comes to joint pain. Black tea is rich in polyphenols, a plant compound that has anti-inflammatory effects, states the Arthritis Foundation, in the US.

Benefits of ghee coffee

Ghee coffee, a blend of brewed coffee and ghee (clarified butter), offers several potential health benefits. The healthy fats in ghee slow the absorption of caffeine, providing a steady energy release without the quick spike and crash associated with regular coffee. Ghee’s saturated fats, combined with caffeine, may improve alertness, concentration, and overall mental clarity. Ghee contains butyric acid, which supports gut health and reduces inflammation. The fats in ghee can increase feelings of fullness, which may help curb cravings and support weight control. Check out the other benefits of ghee coffee.

Ghee coffee or ghee tea: Which one is healthier?

Ghee coffee and ghee tea both offer potential health benefits, but the choice depends on your specific goals and preferences:

Ghee Coffee

Ghee coffee may provide sustained energy and mental focus due to the combination of caffeine and healthy fats. It has the potential for weight management by promoting satiety and supporting ketosis, says Shah.

Ghee Tea

Ghee tea may support digestive health and reduce inflammation due to the butyric acid in ghee. It can enhance fluid intake when made with herbal teas known for their mild laxative effects.

In short, ghee coffee may be better for those seeking energy and focus, while ghee tea could be more suitable for digestive health and hydration. Moderation is key for both, given their calorie density.

What to remember while using ghee in beverages?

When using ghee in beverages, it is important to keep these points in mind:

1. Moderation

Ghee is calorie-dense and high in fat. Use it sparingly to avoid excessive calorie intake. One tablespoon of ghee has 123 calories, according to the US Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, it is important to use it sparingly.

2. Quality

It is important to choose high-quality ghee, such as A2 ghee, for better nutritional benefits and taste. Here is your guide to check the purity of the ghee you use.

3. Body Response

It is very important to monitor how your body reacts to ghee. Some people may experience digestive discomfort or acidity, so adjust your intake accordingly. People with certain health conditions must avoid ghee.

4. Hydration

Ghee does not hydrate, so it is important to drink lots of water with your ghee coffee and ghee tea. Ensure you consume enough fluids throughout the day, especially when adding it to tea.

5. Dietary Restrictions

Consult a healthcare professional if you have dairy allergies or sensitivities, as ghee is derived from milk. By considering these factors, you can enjoy the health benefits of ghee in your beverages while minimizing potential downsides.

How many cups of ghee tea or coffee can you have in one day?

While there are no strict guidelines on the exact number of cups of ghee tea or coffee one can consume in a day, moderation is key due to ghee’s high calorie and fat content. Consuming 1-2 teaspoons of ghee per day is generally considered safe for most individuals, says Shah. Therefore, depending on the amount of ghee used per cup, having 1-2 cups of ghee tea or coffee daily is reasonable, ensuring you don’t exceed the recommended ghee intake. However, pay attention to how your body reacts. If you experience discomfort or acidity, consider reducing your intake or frequency.

Can you have ghee tea or coffee every day?

Yes, you can have ghee tea or coffee every day, but make sure not to overdo it. Ghee is high in saturated fats, so excessive consumption may lead to high-calorie intake, increased cholesterol levels as well as weight gain. However, moderate consumption, about 1-2 teaspoons per day, is considered safe and may offer benefits.

Who should not have ghee tea or coffee?

While ghee tea and coffee can be beneficial for many, some individuals should avoid or approach with caution:

• Patients with high cholesterol. Excessive ghee consumption may worsen high cholesterol levels.
• Those with heart disease, atherosclerosis, or cardiac issues should limit or avoid ghee due to its high saturated fat content.
• If using dairy milk, people with lactose intolerance may experience discomfort.
• Pregnant or lactating mothers
• People with sensitive stomachs, acid reflux, or digestive issues may need to adjust ghee amounts or avoid it altogether.
• Those allergic to dairy or ghee should avoid ghee tea and coffee.
• Individuals on a low-fat diet or with specific dietary restrictions should consult their healthcare provider or registered dietitian.