There’s something deeply comforting about a chilled glass of buttermilk on a hot afternoon. In many Indian households, this humble drink, also known as chaas or chach, has been a trusted companion for generations. It is served after meals, during long summer days, or simply when you need to cool down and feel refreshed. But beyond its soothing taste and nostalgic charm, did you know that buttermilk is packed with health benefits?

This light, probiotic-rich drink is full of nutrients that support digestion, hydration, skin health, and even weight management. Whether you’re looking for natural ways to improve your gut health, stay energised, or manage your weight, there are many advantages to drinking buttermilk.

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In this blog, we’ll explore the many buttermilk benefits, from digestion and immunity to weight loss. We’ll also touch upon its buttermilk nutritional value, the benefits of drinking buttermilk daily, and even some possible side effects you should be aware of.

Buttermilk Nutrition Value

Buttermilk is a fermented dairy drink made by churning curd (yoghurt) with water. It’s light, tangy, and often flavoured with spices like cumin (jeera), ginger, mint, or hing, and is easier on the stomach. It is known by many names, like chaas, chach, or even spiced lassi in some regions.

Let’s explore the buttermilk nutrition benefits:

  • Low in fat
  • Rich in calcium and potassium
  • Contains gut-friendly probiotics
  • Full of vitamins like B12 and riboflavin

So, if you are still wondering, “Buttermilk—is it good for you?” The rich nutritional profile of this humble drink is proof enough that buttermilk supports various aspects of health.

Health Benefits of Drinking Buttermilk

Drinking buttermilk isn’t just about staying cool—it can actually support your digestion, improve your skin, help with weight loss, and much more. Here are some of the top chaas benefits that will convince you to make it part of your daily diet:

  • Aids Digestion and Eases Bloating

The benefits of chaas are well known in Ayurveda for improving digestion naturally. If you’ve had a heavy or spicy meal, a glass of chaas can calm your stomach. This is due to the probiotics in buttermilk that support gut health, ease bloating, and help with acidity.

  • Keeps You Hydrated and Recharges Electrolytes

Chaas is the perfect drink to beat the heat. It is full of water, salts, and essential minerals, making it ideal for rehydration, especially after physical activity or a long, hot day.

  • Buttermilk & Weight Loss

One of the lesser-known benefits of chaas is its potential to aid in weight management. Buttermilk is low in fat yet still satisfying, which can help reduce hunger cravings between meals.

So, if you are on a wellness journey, drinking buttermilk for weight loss is a smart yet simple habit to adopt.

And if you’re wondering about the best time to drink buttermilk for weight loss, try it mid-morning or post-lunch to keep hunger pangs at bay.

  • Helps Your Skin Glow

Since it flushes out toxins and keeps your body hydrated, buttermilk can also reflect on your skin. Regular consumption may help reduce acne, dryness, and promote a natural glow.

  • Keeps Your Heart and Bones Healthy

Buttermilk is rich in calcium and potassium, which support bone strength and may even help maintain healthy blood pressure levels.

  • Boosts Immunity

One of the chaas or chach benefits is that it is a natural probiotic drink. The friendly bacteria in chaas can strengthen your gut, which is closely linked to overall immunity.

Buttermilk is undoubtedly a powerhouse of nutrients, making it beneficial for overall health. However, while buttermilk health benefits are many, there may be a few disadvantages of buttermilk for certain people. Let’s understand it in detail!

Side Effects of Buttermilk

While buttermilk is great for most people, there are a few disadvantages of drinking buttermilk you should keep in mind:

  • If you are lactose intolerant, you should avoid buttermilk as it might cause bloating or discomfort.
  • If you are suffering from cold, fever, chills, or seasonal flu, drinking buttermilk may worsen the existing symptoms because of its cooling nature.
  • Avoid drinking cold buttermilk late at night—it may increase mucus for some people, especially those who have sinusitis or suffer from frequent respiratory issues.
  • People with a milk allergy may also be allergic to buttermilk. Consuming it can lead to swelling, itching, hives, or other allergic reactions. It is advised to consult your healthcare provider immediately in such situations.

Now that we have covered buttermilk benefits and side effects, let’s explore a few ways of adding this delicious and nutrient-packed drink to your diet.

Easy Ways to Enjoy Chaas Daily

  • To aid your digestion, drink a glass of buttermilk right after lunch, especially if you had a spicy or heavy meal. 
  • Drink buttermilk as a midday refresher instead of sugary drinks or processed snacks. It will keep you full for longer and help to maintain your weight. 
  • You can also add ginger, cumin, or mint for flavour and extra health perks.

If you’re looking for a simple, affordable, and natural way to improve your health, drinking buttermilk daily can be a great choice. It’s packed with nutrients, helps with digestion, keeps you hydrated, and even supports weight loss efforts.

So, the next time you’re thinking of grabbing a soda or a processed drink, reach for a glass of chaas instead, and enjoy its refreshing taste along with its health benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is it safe to drink buttermilk every day?

Ans. Yes, for most people, it is completely safe and even beneficial to drink buttermilk every day. It helps with digestion, hydration, and provides important nutrients like calcium and probiotics. Just make sure you are not lactose intolerant, and avoid drinking it very late at night, especially in colder months.

Q. Is buttermilk good for gut health?

Ans. Yes, buttermilk is rich in probiotics, which are the friendly bacteria that support a healthy gut. Regularly drinking chaas can help maintain smooth digestion, reduce acidity, and even boost your overall immunity by keeping your digestive system balanced.

Q. Does buttermilk make your skin glow?

Ans. Yes, it can! Buttermilk helps flush out toxins from the body and keeps you hydrated, and both these things naturally reflect on your skin. Over time, drinking buttermilk regularly may help reduce breakouts, dryness, and dullness, making your skin look fresher and healthier.

Q. How to prepare buttermilk for weight loss?

Ans. It is quite simple, quick and easy to make buttermilk for weight loss. Take ½ cup of fresh curd (yoghurt), add 1.5 cups of water, and blend it well. Add a pinch of roasted cumin powder (jeera), black salt, ginger, or mint for extra flavour and digestive support. Drink it mid-morning or after lunch. It’s low in calories, keeps you full, and supports digestion, making it perfect for a weight-loss routine.

Q. Can buttermilk reduce gas?

Ans. Yes, it can. Buttermilk is often used as a natural remedy to reduce gas and bloating. The probiotics and spices like cumin or ginger (if added) help calm the stomach, reduce acidity, and ease digestive discomfort. It’s especially useful after a heavy or spicy meal.