Buttermilk (Chaas) - an ultimate refreshing drink with many health benefits

Summer is finally here, and with it comes the unbearable heat that we all know too well. As you step outside into the scorching sun, all you can think of is cooling off with something refreshing. While ice-cold water may do the trick for a little while, what if we told you there was something even better? Meet Masala chaas aka Buttermilk – your ultimate companion to beat the summer heat! 

This Indian drink has been around for centuries and continues to be a go-to option for many even today. Not only does it have a unique taste that will quench your thirst instantly, but its chill and cooling properties make it an excellent choice to keep yourself refreshed throughout the day. So without further ado, let's delve deeper into why chaas should become your new best friend!

What is chaas?

Chaas, popularly known as buttermilk in English is a traditional Indian beverage made from yogurt and water. Though it has ‘butter’ in its name, it has no butter in its recipe. This dairy product has a thin, slightly sour taste, is refreshing and cooling, making it perfect for beating the summer heat.

Chaas has its roots in the western Indian state of Gujarat where people just love it. Buttermilk is often consumed after the meal especially post-lunch but can also be relished as a refreshment at any time of the day. Buttermilk is safe to drink throughout the year but should be consumed in moderation.  

How to make chaas?

Chaas or buttermilk is one of the easiest refreshments ever. With just a few ingredients on hand, you can make this chilling drink with ease. Let’s see how it's made. 

• Take curd in a jar. 
• Add chaas masala for a tempting flavour.
• Add water and blend it well till a slight foamy consistency is achieved. 
• Transfer it to a glass, and add some ice cubes. 
• Chilled and masaledar buttermilk is ready to delight you. 

Health benefits of drinking chaas.

Buttermilk is not only a chilling and refreshing dairy beverage but an exceptionally healthy drink. It is power-packed with many healthy nutrients that help the body in varied ways. Here are some amazing health benefits of buttermilk.

Nutrient-rich.

Some of the vitamins and minerals present in chaas are calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, vitamin A, vitamin B12, folic acid, and biotin. These nutrients are essential for our body to function properly and maintain good health. Moreover, they also play an important role in beating the summer heat.

Good for the gut.

chaas is a great source of probiotics. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your gut health. They can improve digestion, boost immunity, and prevent diarrhea and other gastrointestinal problems. 

Aids in weight loss. 

When it comes to weight loss, buttermilk may be a surprising ally. chaas is low in calories and fat but high in protein and vitamins. The lactic acid in it helps to break down fat cells, making them more readily available for use by the body. This makes it an excellent choice for people who are trying to lose weight or maintain their weight.

Reduces acidity.

Buttermilk is often thought of as a dairy product that is high in fat and calories. However, buttermilk can actually be quite healthy for you. One of the surprising health benefits of drinking buttermilk is that it can help to reduce acidity in your body.

Acidity is a condition where there is too much acid is released for digestion in your body. This can lead to a number of health problems, such as indigestion, heartburn, and even ulcers. Drinking buttermilk can help to neutralize the acids in your body and prevent these problems from occurring.

Makes bones and teeth stronger.

There are many benefits to drinking buttermilk, including strong bones and teeth. Buttermilk is a good source of calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for bone health. It also contains lactic acid, which helps to keep teeth healthy and prevents cavities.

Keeps skin healthy.

Buttermilk is rich in lactic acid, which can help to exfoliate the skin and improve its texture. It also contains enzymes that can break down dead skin cells and unclog pores.

Buttermilk has vitamins and minerals, including calcium, potassium, and phosphorus in abundance. These nutrients are essential for healthy skin. Buttermilk can also help to soothe sunburned skin.

Prevents dehydration.

Buttermilk is made by combining curd and water. It consists mainly of water and electrolytes such as potassium. Therefore, it helps to keep our body hydrated by regulating the water balance, thereby avoiding dehydration.

Summing it up:

So next time you’re feeling parched or overheated, make yourself a tall glass of refreshing chaas! There are plenty of surprising health benefits associated with drinking buttermilk, from improved digestion to its high protein content. It can be a great way to give you an energy boost during the day and is also packed full of essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs. Not only will it quench your thirst but also provide your body with the much-needed nutrients to beat the summer heat!