Buttermilk: 8 Benefits of this Tangy and Creamy Delight

• Written by Nidhi Goyal

  Reviewed by Munmi Sharma

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Ever wonder what makes buttermilk so special? Or why do your elders keep insisting on a cool and soothing drink on a scorching hot day? Well, the humble tangy drink might seem simple, but it is fully packed with flavour, history, tradition, and health benefits.

Not just a refreshing drink, buttermilk is a century-old elixir enjoyed globally. Curious to know about the health benefits of buttermilk? Does buttermilk increase weight? What is the best time to drink buttermilk for weight loss? The wait is over, as we will address all your queries in this blog. So, stay tuned!

What is Buttermilk?

Once a by-product of churning milk, buttermilk is a tangy, creamy, and traditional drink renowned for its benefits. The leftover of the churning milk that was the traditional form of buttermilk is sour in taste and naturally low in fat. The commercially produced buttermilk in the grocery stores is prepared with a blend of lactic acid bacteria and fermented milk. This refreshing and revitalising buttermilk is good for weight loss, aids digestion, boosts immunity and enhances skin health.

Buttermilk Benefits You Can’t Ignore

The health benefits of buttermilk are a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Let’s have a look at the buttermilk benefits and its value addition to our diet:

• Promotes Digestive Health- Buttermilk is rich in probiotics, which help maintain a healthy balance of gut flora. Hence, regular consumption of buttermilk helps with digestion, prevents bloating, improves bowel movements, and helps with common digestive issues like constipation and indigestion.
• Aids in Weight Management- Buttermilk is a great low-calorie and low-fat beverage that helps control weight. The proteins in buttermilk make it a healthy snack that curbs hunger pangs and reduces overeating.
• Excellent Source of Nutrition- Buttermilk is one of the most refreshing healthy drinks, full of vitamin B12, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, carbohydrates, and minerals.
• Improves Hydration- The electrolytes potassium and sodium found in the buttermilk improve hydration and help replenish the body’s fluids.
• Reduce Cholesterol Level- The bioactive compound in buttermilk, like sphingolipids, may contribute to removing bad cholesterol from the body, as suggested by many studies.
• Boosts Immune Function- Another major benefit of buttermilk is its boost to the immune system. The probiotics in buttermilk improve gut health and boost the immune system.
• Maintains Healthy Skin- Buttermilk is rich in lactic acid, natural Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), which is good for skin. It is used in beauty treatments to brighten and soften the skin naturally.
• Aids in Reducing Acidity- Is buttermilk good for acidity? Indeed! The lactic acid in buttermilk neutralises stomach acid, which reduces the acidity. It is a natural and very effective remedy to soothe the digestive tract.

Also Read: Amazing Benefits of Eating Curd in Summer

Buttermilk as a Source of Nutrition

Is buttermilk good for health?

Buttermilk is often mistaken for being high in fat, but it is actually low in calories and fat. It is also rich in calcium, Vitamin B12, and potassium. Check out the breakdown of the major nutrients in 100 g of buttermilk.

Buttermilk: Preparation Tips at Home

If you don’t want to have buttermilk from outside and want to prepare it at home, you may find these tips super handy.

• Take some milk in a cup or a container to prepare buttermilk.
• Add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to it.
• Stir the mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice.
• Keep it aside for 8-10 minutes.
• After a period of 10 minutes, it will start curdling.
• Homemade buttermilk is ready.

With these simple steps, you can prepare buttermilk in just 10 minutes. Here are some tips for using and storing homemade buttermilk:

• Always store it in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.
• Consume it within a week to maintain its taste and nutrition.
• It can be used in baking or making dishes like curry, etc.
• Use fresh buttermilk in smoothies and pancakes.

The Bottom Line

Buttermilk is a nutritious traditional choice worth incorporating into a balanced diet. Its benefits range from enhancing digestion to contributing to weight management and boosting immune functions. So, the next time you want a refreshing drink, consider choosing buttermilk. It

Adding buttermilk to your diet and staying hydrated is a small yet powerful way to take care of your health. When it comes to prevention, being prepared matters too. A medical insurance policy ensures that your wellness journey is backed by financial support, no matter what comes your way. Consider investing in a comprehensive health plan from Health Insurance that covers almost everything from hospitalisation expenses to ambulance cover.

Disclaimer: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.