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When it comes to losing weight, most of us have experimented with strange methods at some time in our lives. Whether it was cutting out carbs or drinking green tea as if it were a magical drink, the process of losing weight involves many trials. But what if we shared that a simple glass of buttermilk before going to sleep could be a new partner for you? Yes, that refreshing drink your grandmother always praised might actually be an unsung hero in your journey to lose weight. Buttermilk, which we affectionately refer to as chaach, is not only a cool drink for hot days but also a low-calorie drink full of probiotics. It aids digestion, helps manage cravings, and could even enhance your sleep quality. Seems unbelievable, doesn’t it? Let’s explore the facts about this traditional nighttime drink. Buttermilk is produced by mixing curd with water and some spices. It is light on the stomach, easy to digest, and loaded with important nutrients like calcium, potassium, vitamin B12, and riboflavin. As per the USDA, 100 ml of buttermilk has roughly 46.4 calories, 7.12g of carbohydrates, 1g of fat, and 3.3g of protein.

Buttermilk is abundant in probiotics that assist in:

- Maintaining gut health
- Enhancing digestion
- Minimizing bloating
- Boosting metabolism

Various research studies have looked into how fermented foods relate to weight control. Buttermilk features lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum, the beneficial bacteria that aid digestion and lower inflammation. These bacteria also affect hormones related to hunger and fullness, ensuring that you feel satisfied and refrain from snacking at night. Additionally, buttermilk is a great source of protein, which takes longer to digest and helps you feel fuller for an extended period. This could lead to less calorie consumption overall – a key aspect of losing weight.

Drinking buttermilk at night may seem odd, but there is reasoning behind it:

Helps manage late-night hunger: The protein and calcium in buttermilk can make you feel satisfied, decreasing the desire to snack late at night.

Promote restful sleep: Buttermilk has tryptophan, an amino acid that aids in sleep regulation. Getting better sleep leads to improved hormonal balance, which supports weight loss. Lack of sleep is often associated with higher cortisol levels, the stress hormone that promotes fat accumulation, particularly in the abdominal area.

Support digestion: Ayurveda suggests consuming buttermilk as a digestive aid after meals, especially when seasoned with cumin, black pepper, and a hint of rock salt.

How Buttermilk Helps Benefit Overall Health?

Strengthens Bones: Buttermilk is full of calcium and phosphorus, which helps keep bones strong and supports joint health. It's a good choice for those looking for sturdy bones without too much fat.

Keeps You Hydrated: With a lot of water and minerals like potassium, buttermilk helps cool the body and avoid dehydration, which is especially helpful during hot summers in India.

Good For Heart Health: Buttermilk is low in fat and cholesterol, which might help control blood pressure and promote heart health. It’s a light, heart-safe substitute for full-fat dairy products.

Boosts Immunity: Because it has probiotics and B vitamins, buttermilk aids in boosting the immune system. It helps maintain gut health, which is closely related to how well the immune system works, and provides essential nutrients like vitamin A and riboflavin that assist the body in fighting off illnesses.

Enhances Skin Health: The lactic acid in buttermilk gently exfoliates and nourishes the skin. It's often included in traditional skincare practices to relieve sunburn, lessen dark spots, and improve skin texture. Regular consumption can also help clear out toxins, giving your skin a healthy shine.

Reduces Body Heat: Buttermilk has a natural cooling ability, making it especially helpful in warm climates. It helps keep your body temperature steady, making it a great drink for hot days or after eating spicy food. This cooling feature also helps maintain comfort within the body.

Note Of Caution:

- If you cannot handle lactose, it might lead to bloating or discomfort.
- Stay away from flavored or packaged options that have extra sugars or preservatives.
- Lastly, it's important to enjoy it in moderation. Avoid consuming it too close to bedtime, preferably 30 minutes before sleeping.