Butter is loaded with both saturated and trans fats, which increases the low-density lipoprotein
Butter traditionally known as Makhan has been a quintessential part of the Indian culinary culture. So much so that every Indian thali is incomplete without a small chunk of this handcrafted healthy makhan fat. But over the years, the narrative has changed, and people are now opting for refined and commercially processed yellow butter. But is it healthy? Read on to know more.
Who isn’t fond of butter? White butter has been a major part of Indian culinary history, with many traditional meals prepared using butter. However, over the years the narrative has changed, and people now opt for the refined and commercially processed yellow butter, which many even say is tastier.
But is it healthy?
Butter is loaded with both saturated and trans fats, which increase the low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or bad cholesterol. Experts say the most saturated fat in our diet comes from animal products, which include red meat, eggs, and dairy—all of which contain cholesterol.
What is white butter?
White butter is the original form of butter made naturally at home by churning cream, without any additives. It has important nutrients like calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin D, which support immune function.
White butter also has a slightly lower saturated fat. It is also loaded with butyric acid, which helps in digestion and improves gut health, along with high doses of vitamin E, an antioxidant that supports skin health. According to experts, short- and medium-chain fatty acids in white butter also help enhance your immunity levels and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
How is yellow butter made?
The yellow one is a commercially produced butter that has added salt to it to increase shelf life. Yellow butter has a higher saturated fat content, which can contribute to increased cholesterol levels, and so the intake should always be less, especially if you are prone to heart issues.
According to experts, yellow butter also has preservatives and other additives and is used broadly for baking, pan-frying, and applying on toasted bread.
Which is better for your heart health?
While yellow butter is tastier as compared to white butter, the latter is considered healthier as it helps in lowering bad cholesterol levels. However, moderation is key to reaping the benefits.
According to the American Heart Association, if you are aiming to lower your LDL cholesterol, you should get no more than 5–6 per cent of total calorie intake from saturated fat. On a 2,000-calorie diet, this equates to 11–13 g of saturated fat per day. And so, two tablespoons of butter provide more saturated fat than most people should be consuming daily.
Eating lots of saturated fats can spike your LDL cholesterol level—and so, be mindful of the quantity.
Symptoms of high risks of cholesterol
Experts say high cholesterol may not always show noticeable symptoms, and so, you may need a blood test to check your serum cholesterol levels. It is essential to monitor cholesterol in the blood as high levels can lead to a condition known as atherosclerosis. It leads to:
- Hardened arteries
- Chest pains
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Peripheral arterial disease
- Kidney disease
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