Butter has a long history when it comes to both perceptions and facts in regards to its’ nutritional value.

Dating back about 10,000 years to when people first began domesticating animals, butter has been a culinary staple for countless generations in many different cultures around the world. It has also been used for skin and hair care by the Romans and Greeks, for healing remedies by the ancient Egyptians, and in religious ceremonies in India and Tibet.

But despite this seemingly positive and ubiquitous history, many in the western world turned away from butter in the 1960’s after a controversial study claimed that fat was to blame for the rise in coronary heart disease at the time. As a result, butter and other fats were villainized, which gave rise to the low-fat craze of the 80’s and 90’s that often substituted fat with sugar.

Since then, many studies have debunked the “all fat is bad” myth, and we now know that a moderate amount of naturally-occurring saturated fat is good for health and longevity – while a diet that consists of too many calories from carbohydrates can lead to imbalance.

A diet rich in healthy, saturated fats such as butter, coconut oil, or nuts…

·      Supports a healthy immune system
·      Diminishes the risk for heart disease and stroke
·      Improves lung and liver health
·      Reduces joint pain and skin irritation
·      Helps with healthy blood clotting
·      Strengthens bones
·      Improves brain health, cognitive functioning, and proper nerve signaling
·      Contributes to healthy growing skin, hair, and nails

So, if you were to ask a Health Coach whether butter is healthy, she’d probably say “Yes! Just don’t overdo it,” and she may add that organic or pasture-raised butter is more nutrient-rich than conventional butter made from grain-fed cows.

But keep in mind that the concept of bio-individuality states that we are all unique, so no blanket guidance can possibly apply to everyone. That’s where a Health Coach can really dig into your individual health history, ancestry, health conditions, preferences, and other details before a real wellness plan can be created just for you. In some cases, it could be prudent to replace butter with other healthy fats.

How do you use butter in your diet? If not what is your favorite substitute? Comment below! 

Interested in learning more about holistic nutrition and wellness? Get our Curriculum Guide!