Should You Spread Ghee on Roti? Insights from Acharya Balkrishna

In this article, we delve into the age-old question of whether it's advisable to spread ghee on roti. Acharya Balkrishna, a prominent figure in Ayurveda, shares his insights on the health implications of this practice. While ghee is celebrated for its numerous health benefits, he cautions against applying it directly on roti due to potential digestive issues. Instead, he suggests incorporating ghee into accompanying dishes like vegetables or lentils. This approach allows you to enjoy the benefits of ghee without compromising your digestive health. Read on to learn more about the right way to enjoy ghee with your meals.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 26, 2026, 04:42 IST

The Role of Ghee in Indian Cuisine

Should You Spread Ghee on Roti? Ghee is a staple in Indian kitchens, enhancing flavor and considered beneficial for health. Particularly, desi ghee is revered in Ayurveda as a form of nectar.

Roti is commonly paired with ghee, and many people enjoy spreading it on their bread. However, this practice raises a question: is it advisable to eat roti with ghee? If you're curious about this, let's explore the insights from Acharya Balkrishna, the head of Patanjali Yogpeeth.

What is the Correct Way to Eat Roti?

In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Acharya Balkrishna emphasizes the numerous health benefits of ghee. It contains essential fatty acids and vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are vital for our bodies. Despite these advantages, he advises against spreading ghee on roti.

Why Avoid Spreading Ghee on Roti? According to Acharya Balkrishna, applying ghee creates a layer on the roti that can hinder digestion. This layer may prevent food from being properly digested, leading to issues like gas, indigestion, or a feeling of heaviness. Therefore, it is better to avoid spreading ghee directly on roti. Instead, you can add ghee to the vegetables or lentils you are consuming with the roti. This means you can enjoy ghee in your dishes while keeping the roti plain.

Acharya Balkrishna further explains that some people apply ghee to make the roti softer. If your rotis tend to become hard, consider adding ghee to the dough while kneading. This method will keep the rotis soft and easier to digest, allowing you to enjoy ghee without compromising your health.

Disclaimer

This content is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for more information.