Butter has long been an indispensable ingredient in our daily diet. It is added to porridge, used in baking, fried, spread on bread - and often people do not think about how useful or harmful it is. But is it really possible to eat butter every day without harm to health?
Benefits of butter
Natural butter contains vitamins A, D, E and K - fat-soluble substances that are well absorbed by the body only with fats. The presence of linoleic acid is also important, which supports the functioning of the heart and immune system. The butter also contains healthy saturated fats, necessary for hormonal balance, and a source of energy, which is especially important in the cold season.
In moderation, butter can even be beneficial — for example, for children, people with high mental workloads, or those who need extra calories.
What are the dangers of excess?
Butter is about 80% fat. And while it provides satiety and energy, excessive consumption can cause:
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increased levels of “bad” cholesterol (LDL),
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increased risk of cardiovascular disease,
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gaining excess weight,
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liver and pancreas overload.
The daily safe intake is up to 20 grams per day. This is about one thin slice of bread or a serving of cereal.
Who should be more careful?
People with cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, weight problems, or metabolic disorders should limit their butter consumption. Those with liver or pancreatic disease should be especially careful.
In such cases, doctors recommend replacing some of the animal fats with vegetable fats — for example, olive, linseed, or pumpkin oil, which have a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system.
Oil is not the enemy, if not abused. It can be a useful part of the diet, but only in moderation. As always, it all depends on the quantity and overall balance of the diet.
