New Delhi: Gond katira, a common ingredient found in Indian grocery stores, has emerged as the latest wellness trend on social media, with several videos claiming that it strengthens bones, improves health and keeps the body cool during summer. However, doctors have cautioned that many of these claims are not backed by scientific evidence.
Health experts have urged people to be wary of health advice circulating on social media platforms and advised them to rely on medical guidance and scientific research instead of viral trends.
What is gond katira?
Gond katira is a plant-based edible gum that appears like small translucent crystals. When soaked in water overnight, it swells and turns into a jelly-like substance.
It is commonly added to traditional summer beverages and desserts and is widely believed to possess cooling properties.
Doctors point out that gond katira is different from the edible gum commonly used in laddus, panjiri and other traditional Indian recipes.
Although both are plant-derived gums, they differ in composition and are used for different culinary purposes.
No evidence that it strengthens bones
One of the most widely circulated claims on social media is that gond katira can improve bone density and strengthen bones.
However, according to Dr Akhilesh Yadav, there is no strong scientific evidence to support this assertion.
Doctors say that while gond katira does contain small amounts of minerals such as calcium and magnesium, the quantities are too low to have any significant impact on bone health.
In comparison, everyday foods such as milk, curd and other calcium-rich products provide substantially higher amounts of calcium required for maintaining healthy bones.
‘Cooling effect’ claim also lacks proof
Another popular belief is that consuming gond katira during summer helps lower body heat and provides a cooling effect.
Medical experts, however, say there is currently no clinical evidence to conclusively prove this claim.
Some studies have found that gond katira contains soluble fibre and may possess prebiotic properties that could be beneficial for gut health.
However, researchers emphasise that more scientific studies are needed before any definitive health benefits can be established.
Balanced diet remains key to bone health
Doctors advise people seeking to improve bone strength to focus on proven methods such as maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity and ensuring adequate levels of vitamin D and calcium.
Experts also recommend consulting healthcare professionals instead of relying solely on social media reels and online influencers for medical advice.
While gond katira can be consumed as part of a regular diet, doctors stress that it should not be viewed as a miracle food or a substitute for proper nutrition and healthy lifestyle habits.
Good nutrition, regular exercise and medical guidance continue to be the most effective ways to maintain strong bones and overall well-being.