From Tradition to Nutrition: The Untold Power of Bilona A2 Cow Ghee

Scrolling through the phone, there is always a new piece of nutritional advice. If one day it's about low fat, the next day it's high fat. The list of options is endless, including protein diets, vegan, paleo, and keto. Plus, the list of buzzwords like gluten-free, organic, dairy-free, and whole-30, which keeps on increasing every day, piling up on the confusion: Am I eating right? Also, the pressure to eat well according to the trends increases, and we actually stop listening to our bodies.

But amidst all the noise of different kinds of foods, isn't it still comforting to go back to the homely meals, the homely ingredients? A simple meal cooked by mom (like how the Bengalis address “ghee-bhat”) is always comforting after a long, tiring day or after tedious journeys. We always tend to go back to our roots when it's about food, which is more about comfort than trend. 

What is your comfort food?

What is that traditional ingredient that has been passed on by generations, not just as food but as a source of ritual, nourishment, and medicine? What is one thing “memories of home” is for every individual (Indian) who is staying away from home?

Here is an ingredient that has jumped out of Dadiji's steel containers to yoga cafes and wellness retreats nowadays. It's rich, aromatic, and traditional, but it is incredibly relevant to the modern way of living. It has been used for ages, documented extensively in Ayurveda, to support, sustain, and strengthen. This is a superfat that can offer holistic healing and can be a part of modern diets like keto (it is making headlines as a celebrity’s keto coffee ingredient already). It can be cooked, roasted, and spread. Basically, it can be used in various methods.

This golden-colored, incredible product is known for its purity and digestibility. This is A2 cow ghee, clarified butter with high-density nutrients. 

The markets are flooded with various types of ghee, now that consumers are becoming highly informed. So, one may wonder what is this A2 ghee. In the world of ‘number 1s’, does it come second, and if so, why is it special?

These may be the questions, or may be many more.

A2 cow ghee is a premium form of clarified butter that was originally used in traditional Indian dietary practices. This ghee is made from the milk of the cow breeds that are indigenous to India, such as Gir, Sahiwal, Hollikar, and Kankrej.

So, what? What makes it different?

Because these native breeds produce a specific kind of milk protein, which is A2 beta-casein. Now, this protein present in milk makes it easier on the stomach, especially for those who are sensitive to regular dairy. Also, it is rich in other nutrients that support health and wellness. 

This ghee is prepared using traditional methods, and the result is a highly nourishing fat that can be used in modern nutrition. Probably it can be named as a ‘heritage health food’ that is crafted with care and purity.

The method of preparation of this ghee makes it a class apart from the other ghees that are available in the market. This ghee is made by the traditional Bilona ghee-making process (Bilona refers to a traditional wooden churner), which is a very old process of ghee preparation that ensures that the taste, nutritional value, and authenticity of the ghee are intact. 

• First, A2 cow milk is boiled and then cooled
• This cold milk is then set into curd overnight by adding a natural culture
• A bilona is used to churn this curd, which separates the butter from the buttermilk
• The butter thus formed is then slowly heated on a low flame, where it melts and the water evaporates, leaving behind a golden color liquid that is pure aromatic ghee

## The buttermilk that is left behind is also used as a natural refreshing drink in Indian households

The Bilona ghee process is very different from the commercial methods, as there is a step in the commercial method where high heat is used, which can strip away many nutrients and also alter the flavor of the ghee 

Bilona ghee has an authentic taste, it has a grainy texture and melts in the mouth, a feel which is absent in the factory-made ghee. Plus, as it is slow-cooked at low heat, many of the nutrients are in place, and no preservatives are used. Through this method, however, only small batches can be prepared, ensuring a more reliable quality.

• Studies suggest that the A2 protein is gentler on digestion and prevents gastric intolerances in the body. Therefore, the gut remains healthy and immunity grows stronger. Thus, the overall mood and wellness of the body are enhanced.
• If there is less inflammation, there is less drama. Unlike A1, A2 does not release BCM-7, which is linked to bloating and slow gut movement according to scientific research.
• Honestly, BCM 7 is a pesky one; it does not stop at the gut alone, its role in lipid oxidation is also documented, which is not a good sign for heart health. So, choosing A2 can be a win here. 

• In any case, A2 is still a form of casein, so if someone is allergic to dairy, they may still have reactions. It may be tolerable, but it's not allergy-proof in some cases. So it is always better to consult a dietitian or get medical help before including it in your diet if you have sensitivity
• The case is similar to lactose, so either consult the doctor or try in a small amount first to test its friendliness on your body.

• Always read the label for Indian cow breeds
• A2 or A2-beta casein must be mentioned
• Bilona method or traditional hand turning (Tip: The bilona method of ghee preparation is labor-intensive, and the production is very little, so it is expensive. And, if the product you are buying is cheap, it is likely to be diluted)
• FSSAI certification

• Ghee roast veggies- In a pan, heat the ghee and add chopped vegetables like carrots, potatoes, broccoli, and sweet potato. Add salt, pepper, and any other seasoning of your choice along with a spoonful of A2 ghee. Cook until crisp-tender and enjoy it with your favorite rice or roti. 

• Keto bulletproof coffee- In a cup of freshly brewed black coffee, add one tablespoon of A2 ghee blend in until the mix is creamy and frothy. Pour this into your mug and enjoy it warm in the morning. Trust me, this high-fat coffee provides full-on energy, keeps you focused for the whole day, and supports ketosis for those who are on a low-carb diet