'Healthy ghee' myth busted by Alia Bhatt's nutritionist: Doctor explains the unseen health harm it causes

Celebrity nutritionist Dr. Siddhant Bhargava, who has guided Bollywood stars like Alia Bhatt, Ananya Panday, and Sara Ali Khan, recently addressed one of the most common misconceptions in Indian diets — the belief that ghee is universally beneficial. In a YouTube short, he clarified that the popular perception of consuming ghee as a “miracle food” is often exaggerated and can even be harmful when overdone.

Ghee Is Not a Magical Health Food

Dr. Bhargava highlighted that many people start adding excessive amounts of ghee to their meals, thinking it aids in everything from digestion to fat loss. He warned that such practices can backfire. According to him, ghee is often promoted as a superfood that can do no harm, but in reality, it is still a form of fat — and consuming it without moderation can lead to unwanted health issues.

He explained that while ghee contains some beneficial fatty acids, it remains a calorie-dense food. When people begin to incorporate spoonfuls of ghee into every meal, they unknowingly increase their overall fat and calorie intake, which can contribute to weight gain and other metabolic problems. Dr. Bhargava urged viewers to stop believing every health claim associated with traditional ingredients and instead focus on scientific evidence.

Overconsumption Can Be Detrimental

Discussing the trend of “extra ghee on everything,” the nutritionist said this habit can have adverse effects on one’s skin, cholesterol levels, and digestion. He emphasized that moderation is key and that blindly following diet fads can be counterproductive. Ghee, he noted, may not be harmful in small amounts, but excess consumption can cause more harm than good, especially for those already struggling with weight or cholesterol-related concerns.

Dr. Bhargava’s remarks come at a time when traditional fats have gained renewed popularity due to social media health trends. He reminded viewers that nutritional needs vary for every individual, and what works for one person might not suit another.

About Dr. Siddhant Bhargava

Dr. Siddhant Bhargava is a medical professional, entrepreneur, and co-founder of the health-focused meal delivery platform Food Darzee. An alumnus of Topiwala National Medical College and BYL Nair Charitable Hospital, he has become one of the most recognized celebrity nutritionists in India. Apart from his work with leading Bollywood stars, he also appeared on Shark Tank India Season 4, where he represented his health startup.