Health trends tend to change in the blink of an eye. In recent years, traditional foods like ghee have returned to the spotlight. Health experts often cited ghee as a “healthy” fat to include in your daily diet. However, in an interesting twist, some liver specialists are now cautioning against the regular use of saturated fats. So, is ghee truly good for health, or is it time for a rethink?

Related: Is That Viral Superfood Actually Healthy For You? Try This Test, Recommended By A Celebrity Nutritionist

Traditional = healthier? Not always

Switch from saturated fats like coconut oil, clarified butter (ghee), lard and butter to refined (for cooking), unrefined and cold-pressed (for direct use) seed oils rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated to experience improved liver tests and reduce liver fat.

— TheLiverDoc (@theliverdr) May 13, 2025

Hepatologist Dr Cyriac Abby Philips, aka TheLiverDoc, recently advised his followers on X to avoid saturated fats like ghee, coconut oil, lard, and butter. “Switch from saturated fats like coconut oil, clarified butter (ghee), lard and butter to refined (for cooking), unrefined and cold-pressed (for direct use) seed oils rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats to experience improved liver tests and reduce liver fat,” he wrote.

His statement challenges a widely held belief that traditional equals healthier, and naturally, it has sparked quite a debate. But does the science support his view?

‘Ghee can harm your liver’: Does research back this claim?

Dr Manoj Gupta, Head of Liver Transplant at PSRI Hospital, says growing evidence supports this view. “Yes, growing clinical research supports this claim,” says Dr Gupta. “Saturated fats, including those found in ghee, butter, coconut oil, and lard, are known to contribute to liver fat buildup, especially in individuals at risk of or already diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).”

Studies have shown that a diet high in saturated fats can increase hepatic triglyceride levels, worsen insulin resistance, and activate inflammatory pathways in the liver. In simpler terms, traditional fats may not be as benign as they appear, particularly for those dealing with liver or metabolic concerns.

Should you stop using ghee?

Dr Jagadish Hiremath, a public health expert, acknowledges the cultural significance of ghee and coconut oil. However, he warns that frequent use, combined with a sedentary lifestyle and calorie-rich diet, can negatively impact health.

“While traditional fats like ghee and coconut oil are culturally significant and used moderately in many Indian households, excessive and regular intake can worsen metabolic health, including liver function,” Dr Hiremath explains.

So, you don’t need to stop consuming ghee altogether if you’re otherwise healthy, active, and consuming these fats in moderation. But for those with pre-existing conditions or those following a high-fat diet with limited physical activity, this should be a wake-up call.

Featured Image Source

Related: Foods To Avoid With Curd: 7 Food Pairings That Are Bad For You