It has been one of the most important spreads for decades and is still popular today for its versatile uses - butter.
Butter has fallen into disrepute in recent years, completely unfairly, and nutrition experts have repeatedly advised against consuming butter. This opinion and numerous other misconceptions about butter have now been revoked and butter currently belongs to the superfood category due to its special characteristics. We'll tell you 5 interesting reasons that definitely suggest that you should reintegrate butter into your diet:
1. Butter is the largest source of conjugated linoleic acids
Not everyone is familiar with conjugated linoleic acids (CLA). They are a group of polyunsaturated fatty acids that can support a reduction in body fat and have a positive effect on building muscle. In addition, several studies indicate that conjugated linoleic acids have anti-cancer and antioxidant effects and can positively influence glucose and fat metabolism. Conjugated linoleic acids are formed from linoleic acid in the rumen of cows, sheep and goats with the help of enzymes from a bacterium. It is interesting that the concentration of CLAs depends on the animals' environment. For example, the concentration in milk from the summer period is 4 times higher than the concentration in milk from the cold winter months. The decisive factor for this is pasture farming, which is why butter from grass-fed cows should be preferred when purchasing.
2. Butyric acid works wonders
One of the short-chain saturated fatty acids is butyric acid, which plays an important role in our entire gastrointestinal tract. Butter contains numerous medium-chain fatty acids that have an antimicrobial effect and are crucial for healthy intestinal flora. Research has shown that butyric acids can have anti-inflammatory (anti-inflammatory) and anti-carcinogenic (cancer) effects and can also prevent autoimmune diseases.
3. The composition of the butter can be ideally absorbed by the body
The exact composition of the butter can also have some plus points. The ratio between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids is optimally divided and many of the fatty acids from milk fat are also short-chain fatty acids. These can be absorbed and processed very well by the human body. In addition, the short-chain fatty acids in milk fat also have a positive effect on the intestinal flora.
In addition to the fatty acids, the other components are anything but bad for the body. Butter contains many important vitamins, trace elements, minerals and also folic acid, and in particular it is an excellent source of vitamin A, retinol and beta-carotene. Vitamin A strengthens skin and eye health and supports the function of the thyroid gland. Butter also provides vitamin K2, which supports the functions of vitamins A and D for building bones and helps the body absorb minerals better. This combination of vitamins it contains strengthens the immune system and protects the heart. Minerals include zinc, manganese and selenium.
4. Cholesterol also has a positive effect on our health
Butter and the saturated fatty acids it contains were despised, especially because of their cholesterol content, as cholesterol was thought to be responsible for diseases of the cardiovascular system. This suspicion is now also considered unfounded, as there is no obvious connection between cholesterol in food and cholesterol in the blood. New studies suggest that cholesterol has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system and hormone metabolism and can naturally support the healthy development of children. Low blood cholesterol levels have even been linked to a higher risk of Alzheimer's disease, dementia, depression, violence and suicide.
5. Butter doesn't make you fat!
Even the opposite is the case: as described above, CLA's can promote a reduction in body fat and help overweight people reduce their weight in combination with a balanced diet. It supports the body in its weight management and, especially in combination with healthy carbohydrates, helps to keep blood sugar levels in balance.
It is undisputed that butter has more calories than other foods, but it also contributes to a pleasant feeling of satiety. If we are well satiated and our body is supplied with the right nutrients, we are less likely to have cravings and eat sweets less often.