Chhas Indian butter milk
Common Sanskrit shloka related to health and diet, which includes buttermilk, is: "भोजनान्ते पिबेत्तक्रं, वासरान्ते पिबेत्पयः, निशान्ते च पिबेद्वारि, त्रिभिर्रोगो न जायते". This translates to: "At the end of a meal, drink buttermilk; at the end of the day, drink milk; and at the end of the night (early morning), drink water. By these three, disease does not arise."
According to Ayurveda, Curd at night is contraindicated. During night, curd is substituted with buttermilk.
Indian Buttermilk is traditionally known as "Chhas""Indian Buttermilk" and "chaas" are essentially the same thing, referring to the thin, tangy liquid left over after butter is churned from milk or cream.
The Sanskrit word for Chhas is "Takra"
Takra is a product derived from the curd which is widely used by almost everyone today. In Ayurveda, certain foods are considered as powerful medicine and Takra is one of this. In Ayurveda, the main root cause of every disease is considered as Agni mandya that is low digestive power
Chaas:
Chaas is a thin, savory, and refreshing yogurt drink, often spiced with cumin, mint, and other ingredients, while lassi is a thicker, creamier yogurt drink that can be either sweet or savory, often flavored with fruits or spices.Savoury food has a salty or spicy flavour rather than a sweet one.
Indian butter milk is a common healthy beverage popular in different North Indian regions. Due to the presence of lactic acid, the
acidity of buttermilk is high and helps in preventing unwanted bacterial growth, which is one of the major health benefits of buttermilk.
Properties of Chhas:
(1) Texture: Thin and runny, more like a diluted yogurt drink.
(2) Taste: Primarily savory, with flavors like cumin, mint, coriander, and black salt being common.
(3) Ingredients: Yogurt, water, and spices like cumin, roasted cumin powder, black salt, and mint leaves.
(4):Purpose: A refreshing and hydrating drink, especially popular health-conscious alternative to curdular during hot weather.
Other names: Sometimes referred to as " "masala lassi
In the discourse between
Curd and buttermilk, Ayurveda suggests that buttermilk is a superior and health-conscious alternative to curd
Buttermilk is rich in calcium, vitamins B12 and B2, zinc, and proteins.
Also, such properties of buttermilk make it a healthy drink for winters. However, Ayurveda suggests consuming non-chilled buttermilk that too in day time, during winters. Buttermilk is being consumed in Indian households for a very long time. It is a part of staple diet for many.
Health benefits of Chhas,:
(1) Rich in Nutrients: Buttermilk is a good source of protein, calcium, and riboflavin.
(2) Probiotics: It contains beneficial bacteria (probiotics) that support a healthy gut microbiome.
chhas can contribute to a healthy gut microbiome due to its probiotic content. Chhas is a fermented milk beverage containing beneficial bacteria (probiotics) that can positively impact gut health.
Chhas (Indian Buttermilk):
is a fermented milk beverage made by mixing yogurt with water and spices.
Fermentation introduces beneficial bacteria (probiotics) into the drink.
These probiotics can improve digestion and gut health.
The gut microbiome refers to the diverse community of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, viruses) that live in the digestive tract.
These microbes play a crucial role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function.
A healthy gut microbiome is characterized by a diverse and balanced population of beneficial microbes.
Relationship between Chhas and Gut Microbes:
Chhas can contribute to a healthy gut microbiome by introducing probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can colonize the gut and help to maintain a balanced microbial community.
Consuming chhas regularly can help to increase the population of beneficial bacteria in the gut, potentially leading to improved digestion and overall gut health.
(3) Hydration: Buttermilk can help keep you hydrated, especially during hot weather, due to its water content and electrolytes.
Chhas (buttermilk) is a hydrating beverage, espec helping to replenish fluids lost through sweating .
Chhas is primarily water, making it an excellent thirst quencher and a good way to stay hydrated, especially during hot weather or after physical activity.
(4) Electrolyte Balance: It contains electrolytes like potassium and sodium, which are crucial for maintaining fluid balance in the body and preventing dehydration.
Refreshing: Chhas is traditionally served chilled, making it a refreshing drink on a hot day.
(5);Nutritional Value: Besides being hydrating, buttermilk is also a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamins.
Nutrient Contents:
Protein:
Chaas is a good source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
Calcium:
It provides calcium, crucial for strong bones and teeth.
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2):
Chaas contains riboflavin, which plays a role in energy production and cell function.
Vitamin B12:
Chaas is a source of Vitamin B12, important for nerve function and red blood cell formation.
Electrolytes:
Chaas contains electrolytes like potassium and sodium, which help maintain fluid balance in the body.
Probiotics:
Chaas contains probiotics, beneficial bacteria that support gut health and aid digestion.
Chaas also contains vitamins and minerals like phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, vitamin A, folic acid, and biotin.
(6)Aids Digestive health: It can also aid in digestion, thanks to the probiotics it contains.
Alternative to Sugary Drinks: It is a healthier alternative to sugary, chemically-laden cold drinks. It can aid digestion and regulate bowel movements. Promotes Digestive Health - Buttermilk is rich in probiotics which is helpful to maintain a healthy balance of gut flora. And hence regular consumption of buttermilk helps in digestion, prevents bloating, improves bowel movements, and helps in common digestive issues like constipation and indigestion.
(7) Bone Health : Chaas is a good source of calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for strong bones and teeth.
Chaas a common Indian drink, is beneficial for bone health due to its calcium content, which is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth, and can help prevent conditions like osteoporosis.
Here's a more detailed look at how Chaas supports bone health:
Rich in Calcium:
Chaas is a good source of calcium, a mineral crucial for bone strength and density.
Calcium and Bone Density:
Calcium helps build and maintain strong bones, and adequate calcium intake can help prevent conditions like osteoporosis, where bones become weak and brittle.
Other Nutrients:
Besides calcium, Chaas also contains phosphorus, which is another important mineral for bone health.
Vitamin D:
Some Chaas products are fortified with Vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium effectively.
Regular Consumption:
Incorporating buttermilk into your daily diet, along with a balanced diet and regular exercise, can contribute to strong and healthy bones.
(8) Weight Management: It's low in calories and fat, making it a good choice for those looking to manage their weight. Chaas can aid in weight loss due to its low calorie and fat content, high protein and calcium content, and probiotic benefits that support digestion and metabolism.
Here's a more detailed look at how chaas can contribute to a healthy weight loss journey:
Benefits of Chaas for Weight Loss:
Low in Calories and Fat:
Chaas is a refreshing and hydrating beverage that is naturally low in calories and fat, making it a great alternative to sugary drinks or high-calorie snacks.
High in Protein and Calcium:
It's a good source of protein and calcium, which are important for building and maintaining muscle mass, which in turn can help boost metabolism.
(9) Acidity relief:Chaas can help neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from acidity and heartburn.l "Chaas" is a traditional remedy for acidity due to its lactic acid content, which helps neutralize excess stomach acid and promotes digestion.
Lactic Acid:
Chaas contains lactic acid, a natural compound that helps neutralize excess stomach acid and soothe the stomach lining.
Digestion:
The probiotic bacteria in buttermilk can aid digestion and reduce digestive issues like bloating and gas, which can contribute to acid reflux.
(10) Lactose Intolerance: The fermentation process in Chaas breaks down lactose, making it easier to digest for people with lactose intolerance.
Even lactose-intolerant people can consume buttermilk without any adverse effects.
(11) Detoxification:
Buttermilk contains riboflavin, which helps the body convert food into energy and supports liver function, aiding in detoxification. It contains nutrients and probiotics that support liver function, helping the liver detoxify the body more efficiently.
chhas can aid in liver detoxification due to its riboflavin content, which supports the liver's function in converting food into energy and secreting hormones, and its nutrients and probiotics that support liver function and promote detoxification.
Riboflavin chhas contains riboflavin (vitamin B2), which plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and hormone secretion.
Liver Function:
Riboflavin also contributes to improved liver function and supports the liver's natural detoxification processes.
Nutrients and Probiotics Chaas is rich in essential nutrients like vitamins B12, riboflavin, vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, which contribute to overall liver health.
Amino Acids:
It also contains amino acids that are important for liver repair and regeneration.
Other foods that cleanse the liver include apples, garlic, turmeric root, beetroots, and carrots.
(12) Skin Health:
Lactic acid in buttermilk can help exfoliate and brighten the skin, promoting a smoother and more radiant complexion
Chaas can benefit skin health due to its lactic acid content, which helps exfoliate, remove dead skin cells, and improve skin texture, potentially leading to a brighter and more radiant complexion.
Here's a more detailed look at how chaas can contribute to healthy skin:
Exfoliation and Cell Renewal:
Lactic acid in buttermilk acts as a natural exfoliant, gently removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover, revealing brighter and smoother skin.
Skin Cleansing and Toning:
Chaas can be used as a gentle cleanser and toner, helping to remove impurities and tighten pores.
Reducing Dark Spots and Blemishes:
The astringent properties of Chaas can help lighten dark spots and blemishes, contributing to a more even skin tone.
Hydration and Soothing:
Chaas can help hydrate the skin, which is essential for maintaining its healthy appearance and elasticity.
Suntan and Sunburn Relief:
Chaas can help soothe sunburned skin and reduce the appearance of suntan.
Acne and Blemish Reduction:
The lactic acid and probiotics in chaas can help reduce acne and blemishes.
Natural face mask:
You can mix chaas with other ingredients like turmeric or honey for a natural face mask that can help improve skin radiance and reduce blemishes.
(13)Cholesterol Levels:
Studies suggest that buttermilk can help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in people with high cholesterol.
Helps in maintaining triglyceride levels.
Can help in lowering cholesterol levels.
May improve heart health.
(14) Blood Pressure:
Regular consumption of chhas particularly low-fat varieties, can contribute to lowering blood pressure and maintaining heart health due to its calcium and protein content, as well as its potential to reduce cholesterol levels.
Buttermilk's high potassium content can help balance the effects of excess sodium, potentially lowering blood pressure.
Chhas is a common Indian drink, is made from curd and spices.
Studies suggest that regular Chaas consumption may reduce blood pressure significantly.
This is attributed to the presence of bioactive proteins that have cholesterol-reducing properties.
Chaas is a good source of protein and calcium, which are beneficial for heart health.
Low-fat dairy products like buttermilk are a key component of Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diet, which is a science-based set of recommendations for preventing and treating high blood pressure.
(15) Chaas in diabetes:
:"Chaas" in can be a beneficial and refreshing drink for individuals with diabetes due to its low glycemic index, probiotic content, and potential to aid digestion, but it's important to choose plain, unsweetened versions and be mindful of portion sizes.
Here's a more detailed look at the benefits and considerations.:
Low Glycemic Index (GI):
Chaas has a low GI, meaning it doesn't cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels after consumption, which is a key factor for managing diabetes.
"Chaas" in can be a beneficial and refreshing drink for individuals with diabetes due to its low glycemic index, probiotic content, and potential to aid digestion, but it's important to choose plain, unsweetened versions and be mindful of portion sizes.
Here's a more detailed look at the benefits and considerations.:
Low Glycemic Index (GI):
Buttermilk has a low GI, meaning it doesn't cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels after consumption, which is a key factor for managing diabetes.
(17)Chaas in diarrhoea.
While generally considered safe and even beneficial for gut health, chaas can be a good choice for diarrhoea because it's a source of probiotics, which can help restore the gut's beneficial bacteria, and it's also hydrating
(18) Chaas in pregnancy:
During pregnancy, consuming chaas can be beneficial due to its high calcium, protein, and vitamin B-12 content, which are essential for the mother and the developing fetus. It can also help with digestion and hydration.
Chaas is a good source of calcium, protein, and vitamin B-12, all of which are crucial for a healthy pregnancy.
Other Benefits: Buttermilk may also contribute to heart health, boost the immune system.
You can drink chaach at night, and it can even be beneficial for improving digestion and promoting sleep. However, some people with certain conditions or allergies may want to avoid it at night.
Amul presents Probiotic Buttermilk contains healthy probiotic bacteria which helps to improve Immunity and digestion.
One to two glasses of buttermilk per day is considered healthy, but individual needs may vary. the "Good bacteria" with a high survival rate to reach the intestines alive and it helps to promote digestion and well being.
Drinking Chaasc on an empty stomach can offer several benefits, including aiding digestion, promoting gut health, and providing hydration, but it's important to note that individuals with lactose intolerance might experience digestive discomfort.
,Masala Chhas is made with Yogurt or dahi water, and a blend of spices, including cumin, coriander s The secret ingredients for a balanced Masala Chaas are black salt, amchur (dried mango powder), and a rich, creamy yogurt used as the base
Masala chaas is generally considered a healthy drink, offering numerous benefits like aiding digestion, combating acidity, and providing essential nutrients.
Takradhara is a unique Panchakarma therapy in which medicated buttermilk is continuously poured onto the forehead in a precise pattern in a stream that is very continuous. The duration of the treatment is decided depending on the aggravated doshas of Vata and Pitta.
We end this article with a Sanskrit Shloka on Chaas
न तक्रसेवी व्यथते कदाचित्, न तक्रदग्धाः प्रभवन्ति रोगाः।"
अर्थ: जो मट्ठा (छाछ) का सेवन करता है, वह कभी दुखी नहीं होता, और मट्ठा से नष्ट किए गए रोग फिर से उत्पन्न नहीं होते।
"तक्र" शब्द का अर्थ मट्ठा या छाछ होता है ।
संस्कृत में छाछ को "तक्रम्" भी कहा जाता है ।यह श्लोक छाछ के सेवन के स्वास्थ्य लाभों को बताता है ।
भोजन के बाद छाछ पीने को भी प्रोत्साहित किया जाता है ।
"भोजनान्ते पिबेत्तक्रं" का अर्थ है भोजन के बाद छाछ पियो ।
Drink Chaas after meal and stay healthy.
With blessings
Information complied by Dr. Bhairavsinh Raol
