Too much ghee can cause gallstones: Gastroenterologist explains.

Ghee is a staple in Indian diets, but consuming it in large quantities is a different story. A gastroenterologist explains how excess dietary fat may trigger digestive discomfort and worsen symptoms in people with existing gallstones or gallbladder problems.A gastroenterologist has cautioned against the growing trend of consuming ghee directly (AI-image)Ghee has always been a part of Indian diets, but a new wellness trend has people taking the traditional ingredient a step further. From consuming spoonfuls of ghee directly to mixing it into black coffee, many people are increasingly adding large quantities of ghee to their daily routine in the belief that it can improve digestion, relieve constipation, support weight loss, or provide other health benefits.But according to Dr. Abhishek Agrawal, Director and leading Surgical Gastroenterologist, GI Oncosurgeon, and Liver Transplant Surgeon at Asperia Hospital, Greater Noida, consuming ghee in excess does not necessarily offer additional health benefits and can instead have unwanted effects on the body.MORE GHEE DOES NOT MEAN MORE HEALTH BENEFITSGhee can be included in a balanced diet, but the quantity matters. Dr. Agrawal recommends that around 1–2 teaspoons of ghee can be included as part of a balanced diet, depending on an individual’s dietary and calorie requirements.However, consuming large quantities of ghee does not mean that the body receives greater benefits. Ghee is a concentrated source of fat and is high in calories, so excessive consumption can significantly increase overall calorie intake. The focus, therefore, should not be on consuming ghee in isolation but on maintaining a balanced diet containing adequate protein, fibre and appropriate amounts of fat.Don’t do this. Don’t drink ghee like this. I know many people who passed away next morning because of this. It causes a gall bladder contraction that can cause severe issues. These people are poor they see ghee they go crazy because generational poverty makes them think https://t.co/g2Go2JoPVG— Chirag Barjatya (@chiragbarjatya) September 6, 2026WHY ARE PEOPLE EATING GHEE DIRECTLY?The trend of consuming ghee directly has been fuelled by claims that it can improve digestion, help with constipation, boost energy or even support weight loss. However, there is no scientific reason to consume large amounts of ghee specifically for weight loss.Similarly, while some people believe ghee can help with constipation, it should not be considered a substitute for adequate dietary fibre. Fibre-rich foods and an overall balanced diet are more important for maintaining healthy digestion and bowel movements.WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU ADD GHEE TO BLACK COFFEE?Another popular trend is adding ghee to black coffee. While a small amount of ghee may be consumed as part of an individual’s overall diet, there is no established scientific reason for adding ghee to black coffee for weight loss.For some people, this combination may also cause digestive discomfort, including nausea and bloating, particularly when they consume more fat than their digestive system comfortably tolerates.EXCESSIVE GHEE CAN AFFECT DIGESTIVE HEALTHConsuming a large amount of ghee means consuming a large amount of dietary fat at once. This may cause bloating, nausea or abdominal discomfort in some people.If someone is regularly consuming several spoonfuls of ghee because they believe that more will provide greater health benefits, the practice can instead add excessive calories and fat to their diet.PEOPLE WITH GALLSTONES NEED TO BE PARTICULARLY CAREFULThe concern becomes more important for people who already have gallstones or gallbladder-related problems.A high-fat intake can trigger or worsen symptoms in people with gallstones. Gallstones can also cause complications such as inflammation of the gallbladder and, in some cases, can lead to pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas.Therefore, people with gallstones or existing gallbladder problems should be particularly cautious about consuming excessive amounts of ghee and should follow their doctor’s dietary advice.GHEE IS NOT THE PROBLEM EXCESS ISGhee itself does not necessarily need to be removed from the diet. The concern is excessive consumption and treating it as a health remedy.As Dr. Agrawal explains, a small amount can be incorporated into a balanced diet, but there is no benefit in assuming that consuming more ghee will automatically improve health, digestion or weight.If you enjoy ghee, moderation is key. Around 1–2 teaspoons can be part of a balanced diet, but consuming large amounts directly or adding it to drinks such as black coffee does not provide proven additional health benefits.Instead, prioritise a balanced diet with adequate fibre and protein, and be especially cautious with high-fat intake if you have gallstones or gallbladder-related problems.- EndsPublished By: Chaitanya DhawanPublished On: Sep 7, 2026 15:14 IST