Is the celeb-approved ‘ghee coffee’ really healthy for you? We investigate

Adding ghee to aloo paranthas and using it as tadka in dals is a common practice, but health enthusiasts are taking it a notch higher by incorporating a spoonful of ghee into their coffee. Popularised by celebrities like Rakul Preet Singh and Bhumi Pednekar, ‘ghee coffee’ is gaining attention for its touted health benefits. However, does this trendy concoction truly live up to the hype? Let’s explore.

Shweta Gupta, unit head of dietetics at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, explains that ‘ghee coffee,’ also known as butter coffee or bulletproof coffee, involves combining black coffee with clarified butter (ghee) or sometimes just butter. “The concept originated from the Keto diet, which emphasises the consumption of high-quality fats for enhanced focus and energy levels,” she said.

Benefits of ghee coffee

*Sustained energy: Ghee coffee is believed to provide a more sustained release of energy compared to traditional coffee due to the added fat, which releases energy slowly. The healthy fats in ghee slow down caffeine absorption, preventing the energy spikes and crashes associated with regular coffee.

*Enhanced focus: The combination of caffeine and fats is thought to improve cognitive function. The fats serve as a readily available energy source for the brain, potentially enhancing mental clarity, focus, and concentration.

*Appetite control: The fats in ghee may contribute to a feeling of satiety, aiding in appetite control and potentially reducing overall calorie intake, especially beneficial for those following a ketogenic or low-carbohydrate diet.

*Antioxidant boost: Coffee is rich in antioxidants, and when combined with high-quality fats like those found in ghee, it may provide additional antioxidant benefits. Antioxidants play a crucial role in combating oxidative stress in the body.

How to make ghee coffee

Ingredients

• 1 cup of freshly brewed coffee
• 1 to 2 tablespoons of high-quality ghee
• Optional: 1 to 2 tablespoons of MCT oil or coconut oil
• Optional: Sweetener of choice (e.g., stevia or erythritol)

Method

1. Brew a cup of your preferred coffee using high-quality ground coffee.
2. In a blender, combine the hot coffee, ghee, and optional MCT oil or coconut oil.
3. Blend on high for about 20-30 seconds until the mixture becomes frothy.
4. Optionally, add a sweetener if desired, and blend for an additional 5-10 seconds.
5. Pour the blended ghee coffee into a mug and enjoy.

 

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Note: Start with a small amount of ghee and MCT oil, gradually increasing it based on individual tolerance.

While ghee coffee may offer benefits for some, Anju Mohan, dietitian, Amrita Hospital, Kochi said that it’s crucial to consider personal dietary preferences and health conditions. “People on low-fat diets, those managing their calorie intake, individuals with dairy allergies, and those dealing with cardiovascular issues should exercise caution. Individuals with gallbladder problems may experience digestive pain, and those sensitive to caffeine should be mindful of the stimulating effects of coffee.”

Mohan advises consulting healthcare professionals or nutritionists before making significant diet changes, as such diets are not universally suitable.

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