Is Butter the Enemy?

Is butter the enemy?

It’s a popular delicacy that has certainly been victimised in the past.

But… it’s not all bad. Butter is actually full of nutrients that can benefit our health.

First, it’s important to understand a little about fats and cholesterol. Our bodies need both types of cholesterol to function ~ LDL (saturated fats, often called “bad” cholesterol) and HDL (unsaturated fats, often called “good” cholesterol).

In reality, there’s no true “good” or “bad” ~ we need both for balance. The issue arises when our modern diets contain too many LDL fat sources, which can lead to plaque build-up in the arteries and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. HDL fats, on the other hand, help remove excess cholesterol from the arteries and carry it to the liver for disposal.

So… a balance of both fat sources is essential, as they work together.

LDL helps transport vital cholesterol around the body, supporting cell membrane structure, hormone production, and vitamin D synthesis, while HDL fights inflammation and helps prevent blood clots.

The fats found in butter also support brain health and increase satiety, while its high concentration of vitamins and minerals help strengthen immunity and support heart health.

So enjoy your butter guilt free! Just make sure your diet is also rich in unsaturated fat sources like coconut oil, olive oil, nuts, seeds, salmon, and avocados. And remember, grass-fed butter is best. It’s a nutrient-dense food, so enjoy it in moderation.