Nutrition Pros Weigh In: Is Butter Good or Bad for Cholesterol?

Butter image

Expert opinion from Jacomie Nel

Master of Science (MSc), Dietetics/Dietitian · 7 years of experience · South Africa

Butter may be bad for cholesterol. Butter is known to be a source of animal fat which is high in saturated- and trans- fats. Most research suggest that butter have a cholesterol raising effect due to the fat profile. An article that was published in the American Journal of Clinical nutrition conducted a study to determine the effect of butter versus olive oil on the total cholesterol and “bad” LDL cholesterol of participants. The habitual consumption of butter resulted in a raise in both the total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels, whereas no increase was found among the participant whom habitually consume olive oil. The effect of the olive oil can potentially be attributed to the fact that it is a plant-based oil, known to be significantly lower in cholesterol and saturated fats. Plant based oils are healthier options as they contain monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats known to have a protective effect on cholesterol. The consumption of butter should be kept to a minimum, especially in those individuals that already have hypercholesterolemia. It is definitely a better and healthier option to opt for plant-based oils and fats such as olive oil or canola oil.

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Expert opinion from Jodie Bennett

BSC. Food Science and Nutrition · 6 years of experience · UK

Butter does contains high levels of saturated fat which can be bad for your cholesterol levels. Eating butter within moderation is perfectly okay or you can try switching from eating too much saturated fats to food rich in unsaturated fat such as oily fish, olive oil, avocados, and nuts and seeds.

Expert opinion from Mantwa Radebe

Master of Science (MSc) In Nutrition · 12 years of experience · South Africa

Butter is known to contain saturated and trans fats which they have properties to increase Low Density Lipoprotein(LDL) in the blood which is considered to be a bad fat. So yes butter is bad for cholesterol.

Disclaimer: This is for information purpose only, and should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. These are opinions from an external panel of individual doctors or nutritionists and not to be considered as opinion of Microsoft. Please seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Medical advice varies across region. Advice from professionals outside your region should be used at your own discretion. Or you should contact a local health professional.