Lassi is the go-to cold beverage in the summer season. We see a number of people standing at milk shops and gulping down a chilled meetha [sometimes namkeen] glass of lassi.
Chances are if you live in Pakistan, you must have had a thandi lassi at least once in your life. And trust us, it’s worth it.
There are a number of benefits of drinking lassi, especially in the heat. It’s protein rich, increases your digestive system and keeps you hydrated for a long time. In fact, it is also a staple drink in houses at most sehri or iftar tables.
Related: Meethi And Namkeen Lassi
But have you ever wondered how much lassi is too much? Or is there even a thing that ‘you have had too much lassi in a day’?
Moderation is Key
Lassi may be a drink fit for every meal, but as they say too much of anything can give way to health risks. And our comforting glass of lassi also makes the cut.
There is no denying the fact that lassi helps lose weight as it replaces good fat with bad and also helps built muscle, it is important to note that lassi should be had in moderation.
A cup of lassi contains 230 calories and a calorie intake of a man should be around 2,500kcal and a woman should be around 1,500 to 2,000kcal.
Yogurt, with which lassi is made can cause health risks if had too much. For instance, having more than two to three containers of yogurt can cause unwanted weight gain and risk heart conditions.
Health Risks
According to the American Heart Association, adults should limit saturated fat consumption to no more than seven percent of calories. This is because saturated fat can raise blood cholesterol levels and the risk of heart attack, stroke or other heart conditions. And five grams of saturated fat is found in eight ounces of whole-milk yogurt.
Related: Mango Lassi Ice-Lolly
Unfortunately, women are more at risk than men. Harvard University health researchers recommend that since women are more at risk, they should limit their intake of diary no more than two to three servings per day as risks may include ovarian cancer.
On the other hand, too much yogurt can also make one prone to kidney stones and prostate cancer. Or reduce the absorption of iron and zinc.
However, it is important to note that this may only occur in case of access consumption over a period of time.
So, while we love our glass of lassi, let’s not over do it.