Butter

What is butter?
 

Butter is a dairy product made by churning milk, a process separating the solid fats from the liquid, known as buttermilk.

Although butter is also made from the milk of other mammals like sheep, goats, and buffalo, this article focuses on butter made from cow’s milk.

Many different types of butter are available, including salted, unsalted, grass-fed, and clarified butter — each of which varies based on their respective ingredients and production method.

Due to its high concentration of fat, butter has a rich flavor and creamy texture.

It works especially well for high-heat cooking like sautéing and pan-frying and can help prevent sticking while adding flavor.

Butter is also widely used in baking to add texture and volume to baked goods and desserts.

Plus, it can be spread on bread, roasted veggies, pasta dishes, and many more

Butter has long been a subject of controversy in the world of nutrition.

While some say that it cranks up cholesterol levels and clogs your arteries, others claim that it can be a nutritious and flavorful addition to your diet.

Fortunately, a lot of research has been conducted in recent years evaluating the potential health effects of butter.

This article takes a closer look at butter and whether it’s good or bad for your health.

Butter nutrition

One tablespoon (14 grams) of butter provides the following nutrients :

  • Calories: 102
  • Total fat: 11.5 grams
  • Vitamin A: 11% of the Reference Daily Intake (RDI)
  • Vitamin E: 2% of the RDI
  • Vitamin B12: 1% of the RDI
  • Vitamin K: 1% of the RDI

Although butter is high in calories and fat, it contains a variety of important nutrients as well.

For example, it’s a good source of vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin needed for skin health, immune function, and healthy vision It also contains vitamin E, which supports heart health and acts as an antioxidant to protect your cells against damage caused by molecules called free radicals.

Additionally, butter contains very small amounts of other nutrients, including riboflavin, niacin, calcium, and phosphorus.