How to use ghee for healthy weight gain and why

Using ghee for weight gain can be an effective approach. However, there are many things to consider while choosing the right ghee.
A bottle of ghee
Ghee is calorie-dense and helps in weight gain. Image courtesy: Freepik
Anjuri Nayar Singh Published: 22 Dec 2023, 08:59 am IST
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While weight loss is a goal for many, a lot of people also struggle with weight gain. Being overweight and underweight can be equally problematic for health. Well, if you are one of them, you are in luck as we have the perfect ingredient for you – try ghee for weight gain!

What is ghee?

Ghee or clarified butter is made from cow milk. It can also be made by melting butter. Only the butter is heater, the milk solids can be removed and, thus, ghee is made. This is why ghee is a lactose-free ingredient. Additionally, ghee has 100 percent fat, therefore it is very important to understand how to use it efficiently.

How does ghee help with weight gain?

Ghee is calorie-dense, providing a concentrated source of energy. “Consuming more calories than your body expends leads to weight gain,” explains dietitian Garima Goyal. Ghee contains healthy saturated fats that contribute to overall calorie intake, and these fats are essential for various bodily functions.

Additionally, ghee contains fat-soluble vitamins like A, E, and D, which are important for overall health and can support weight gain. “Ghee has a high smoke point, making it suitable for cooking. This stability preserves its nutritional content, making it a consistent part of a calorie-dense diet. The consumption of ghee may stimulate the appetite, leading individuals to eat more and, consequently, consume more calories,” adds the expert

A bottle of ghee
Choosing the right ghee is essential for weight gain. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

Which ghee is best for weight gain?

The choice of ghee for weight gain should consider factors such as quality, source, and nutritional content. Garima Goyal tells us what to consider while choosing the best ghee to gain weight.

1. Quality and Purity

Choose high-quality ghee that is pure and free from additives or impurities. Pure, organic, or grass-fed ghee is often recommended as it may contain more beneficial nutrients.

2. Source of ghee

Ghee sourced from grass-fed cows is often considered superior. Grass-fed ghee may have a higher concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins, potentially providing additional health benefits.

3. Clarification process

Traditional methods of ghee preparation involve simmering butter to remove water content and milk solids. Look for ghee that undergoes a meticulous clarification process to ensure purity and retention of nutritional elements.

4. Nutrient content

While ghee is primarily composed of fats, it also contains fat-soluble vitamins like A, E, and D. Choose ghee that retains these nutrients, as they contribute to overall health and well-being during weight gain.

5. Medium-Chain Fatty Acids (MCTs)

Ghee with a higher content of MCTs can be advantageous. MCTs are easily digestible and may be used as a quick source of energy, potentially aiding in weight gain.

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6. Storage and Shelf Life

Properly stored ghee has a longer shelf life. Ensure that the ghee is stored in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality over time.

7. Individual Tolerance

Consider individual dietary preferences and tolerances. Some people may prefer ghee made from cow’s milk, while others might explore alternatives like buffalo ghee.

8. Balanced diet

Remember that while ghee can be a beneficial addition to a diet aimed at weight gain, it should be part of a well-balanced and diverse nutritional intake that includes a variety of food groups.

Also Read: 8 best cow ghee brands in India: Add a touch of tradition, taste and health to your diet

How to use ghee for weight gain?

A cup of coffee
Adding ghee to coffee is great for your health. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

Incorporating ghee into your diet for weight gain can be done in various ways and quantities. Use ghee as a cooking medium for sautéing, frying, or roasting vegetables, meats, or grains. This adds richness and extra calories to your meals. “Bullet coffee or tea is an excellent way to include ghee in your diet. Add a teaspoon or more of ghee to your morning coffee or tea. This can be a calorie-dense way to start your day,” says Goyal. Besides this, ghee can be drizzled over soups, other dishes, and can be incorporated into baked goods like muffins, cookies, or cakes. It provides a unique flavour and contributes to the overall calorie count.

How much weight can you gain with ghee in a month?

The amount of weight gain one can achieve with ghee in a month depends on various factors, including individual metabolism, overall diet, lifestyle, and health status. Additionally, healthy weight gain is a gradual process that requires a balanced approach.

A safe and sustainable rate of weight gain is typically around 0.5 to 2 pounds per week. This equates to roughly 2 to 8 pounds in a month. “Ghee can contribute to a caloric surplus, but it’s important to consume a well-balanced diet with a variety of nutrients. Include a mix of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals to support overall health,” says Goyal.

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About the Author

Anjuri Nayar Singh has over 12 years of experience in writing for various topics including lifestyle, films, television and OTT. She also writes on art and culture, education and human interest stories. ...Read More

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