Ghee Saunth Ladoos (dry ginger and ghee ladoos) hold a special place in Indian tradition, especially for pregnant and postpartum women. Made with ghee, saunth (dry ginger), gond (edible gum), jaggery, nuts, and spices, these ladoos provide essential nutrition, warmth, and strength during and after pregnancy. These ladoos are not just food but a symbol of care and tradition, passed down through generations to ensure the health and well-being of mothers and newborns. Their wholesome, nutrient-dense composition makes them a time-tested remedy for recovery, energy, and overall maternal health.
But, in the modern age where everyone is concerned about weight, traditional norms are being challenged.
Recently, an X user posted on the microblogging platform about ghee saunth ladoos and its effect on new mothers. “Every gynaecologist and dietitian asks mothers not to eat those ghee saunth laddus postpartum. Wife didn’t eat. Got back in shape within 6 months of postpartum. Most of the cases we get of postpartum weight loss is about this only – “our mothers fed too many laddu and food that made us gain unnecessary weight.” Not sure why society is so fixated on not listening to doctors and dieticians when it comes to pregnancy,” wrote the X user.
The post received mixed comments highlighting the difference between traditional methods and new lifestyle.
“Too complex, as such all health scenarios in India, The mother should herself be convinced. Also, unfortunately those who don’t eat, are labelled as self centred (not thinking about baby etc), Also you will be surprised at many stuff / myths Gynecologist’s / doctors end up promoting,” a doctor has replied.
“Losing weight post partum has got nothing to do with these laddus or ghee. It depends on body types, weight gained during pregnancy and other factors. These nutritious foods are sine qua non for adequate breast milk and long term health post child birth,” writes another.
Breastfeeding moms need additional calories to produce milk
“Breastfeeding women need additional calories to produce milk, and these ladoos can help supply necessary nutrients. If paired with a well-balanced diet and light physical exercise, the issue of weight gain can be avoided. Rather than excluding them, portion control is the answer to relishing their benefits without unnecessary weight gain,” says Dr. Deepika Aggarwal Director- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, CK Birla Hospital Gurugram.
“Ghee saunth ladoos are useful for postpartum recovery because they help in digestion, increase immunity, and enhance lactation. Ghee, although calorie-rich, is helpful for hormonal balance and joint health. If eaten in moderation, these ladoos do not necessarily cause weight gain,” she adds.
Overconsumption of these ladoos can affect total daily calorie count
Dr. Mannan Gupta, Chairman & HOD- Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Elantis Healthcare New Delhi, explains, “Ghee saunth ladoos are one of the postpartum foods prepared traditionally using ghee, saunth, jaggery, and nuts. Although they are very nutritious and aid in postpartum recovery, they are calorie-rich too. Ghee and jaggery contain high energy levels, which, if not put to productive use, may cause weight gain.”
“New mothers usually have minimal physical activity during the early postpartum period, and so it becomes easy to store excess calories as fat. Also, overconsumption of these ladoos can boost total daily calorie count, adding to weight gain. To prevent unwanted weight gain, mothers should take in less quantity, by eating a healthy diet and light postpartum exercises as advised by the doctor,” said Dr Gupta.
While all the ingredients of the ladoos are healthy and nourish a new mom’s body, women should not go overboard and consume the ladoos in moderation.