Nutritional Facts And Benefits Of Buttermilk
Buttermilk or chaach is a popular beverage on a hot summer day but many Indians tend to avoid it during the cooler months when there is a nip in the air. Let me put the record straight first, a glass of buttermilk is beneficial even during winters but it should not be chilled when consumed.
This light, thin, mildly sour tasting and creamy drink is consumed all over India and even in many parts around the globe. It is prepared by the churning of curd, so it contains less or almost no fat. It prevents dehydration and contains almost 90% water and electrolytes useful for our body. It is low in fat and is categorised as a healthy drink. In fact, it contains many essential nutrients like calcium, sodium, potassium, vitamins and traces of phosphorus.
Spices such as mustard seeds, cumin, pepper, ginger, green chilies, curry leaves and coriander leaves are added to buttermilk to enhance its flavour and nutritional value. Salt should be avoided as per Ayurveda, and if used, it should be added in very little quantity.
Probiotics in buttermilk help in proper digestion and remove toxins from our body. The lactic acid in buttermilk improves body metabolism is also good for our skin. It acts as a cleanser detoxifying our digestive tract, cleanses the intestines, relieves constipation and helps in replenishing intestinal flora. A daily glass of buttermilk strengthens immunity and helps us fight against a variety of infections. Buttermilk, being a dairy product, is rich in B complex vitamins and vitamin D and helps our body.
Buttermilk is refreshing and quickly brings down our body temperature. Buttermilk can also provide instant relief to post-menopausal women when they experience hot flashes. We should avoid consuming buttermilk in the evening.
I am fond of milk and milk products and have tried all the buttermilk brands available in the market. I have found that Verka offers the best consistency, feel of cultured dairy flavours, sour tangy taste and reminds me of my childhood tastes of home-made buttermilk from our village near Amritsar.