#HealthBytes: Love buttermilk? Here's why it is good for you
What's the story
Buttermilk or chaas is one of the most popular beverages in India. While you can easily prepare the beverage by blending curd, water and salt, you can also add condiments for an extra dash of flavor. Buttermilk has antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties and it comes with a host of health benefits. Read on to know more about its therapeutic goodness.
Bone health
Helps in maintaining bone health and prevents diseases like osteoporosis
Buttermilk is rich in calcium and phosphorus; it helps in building strong bones and prevents diseases like osteoporosis. In addition, buttermilk may also be a better alternative to milk, as one glass of the beverage has a significantly lesser amount of fat when compared to a glass of milk. Further, experts suggest that buttermilk is the best natural source of calcium for lactose-intolerant individuals.
Digestion
Improves metabolism, aids in digestion, reduces risk of colon cancer
The lactic acid and healthy bacteria present in buttermilk help in improving gut health. Buttermilk is also believed to be one of the best natural cures for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). In addition, buttermilk has astringency and appetizing properties that makes it a natural remedy for constipation. Drinking a glass of buttermilk every day may also reduce the risk of developing colon cancer.
Hydration
Hydrates the body and maintains water balance
Buttermilk is rich in electrolytes and helps in quickly hydrating the body. Drinking it on a hot summer day comes with the added advantage of balancing the water content of the body and prevents diseases like prickly heat in summers. Above all, hydrating with buttermilk also prevents the risk of urinary infections that can happen due to a lesser intake of water.
Acidity
Is a quick relief for acidity
Drinking buttermilk is a quick natural option to relieve acidity. This is because this cooling beverage also helps in neutralizing the acids in the stomach, and prevents heartburn. If you experience acidity, drink a glass of buttermilk that is topped with ginger, cumin, curry leaves and black pepper. Adding these condiments can help in expelling the gas from the stomach.