Nutritionists agree: this is the healthiest type of butter you can cook with for weight loss

Butter where would we be without it? This ingredient is a staple in most kitchens around the world and an essential ingredient in many recipes. Unfortunately, you’ve probably heard that butter can lead to weight gain and other health problems when consumed in excess. This is because it is high in saturated fat. And while margarine may seem like a healthy option, we regret to admit that this alternative also carries a number of health risks. In fact, it can be even worse than the real thing. But that doesn’t mean you have to cut out butter completely! The key, in addition to moderation, is to choose the healthiest variety possible.

But whatisthe healthiest type of butter for those of us trying to shed a few pounds? To find out, we spoke with certified nutritionist Heather Dick, a certified nutritionist. She told us to choose grass-fed or pasture-fed organic butteris your best bet as you navigate your weight loss journey. Learn more about the benefits of this ingredient below.

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Organic grass-fed or pasture-fed butter

Before we dive into why organic, grass-fed, or pasture-raised butter is the best option, it helps to know why other types can be so detrimental to your weight loss goals. As Dietz explains, butter is “mostly made of milk fat—about 80%, to be exact.” It is also dense in calories. A one-tablespoon serving contains 100 calories, 12 grams of fat and 7 grams of saturated fat.”

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On top of all that fat and calories, it’s worth noting that butter could cause digestive issues. It is also of low nutritional value. Both of these factors can affect your ability to lose weight. “Butter is also a dairy product, which is difficult to digest and highly flammable for some people. Aside from the calories you get from fat, butter contains no fiber, antioxidants, or other bioactive compounds commonly used for weight loss, “Yikes!

Fortunately, organic, grass-fed or pasture-raised butter, like the kind Dietz recommends, could reduce the risk of these problems. When butter is labeled this way, she explains, “it means the butter comes from cows that have been grass-fed most of their lives, which means it’s higher in omega-3 fatty acids and lower in saturated fat,” she notes. Those omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats that can do wonders for your body—and may even help with weight loss.

Organic Valley

While any pasture-raised organic butter is a healthy choice (especially compared to margarine), Dietz recommends one brand in particular: Organic Valley Pasture-Raised Butter. “In addition to being higher in healthy fats, it contains probiotics for gut health,” she tells us. “It’s also free of antibiotics, hormones and other additives you don’t want in your food.” Perfect!

She also offers another piece of advice: Consider including olive oil in your meals, instead of just filling them with butter. This oil is full of benefits. “Try using a mixture of butter and olive oil to cook your meats and vegetables,” says Dick. “The fats from these foods will help you absorb the antioxidants from the vegetables.”

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lower limit

After all, of course, a little margarine or “unhealthy” butter here and there won’t make you gain weight overnight. Plus, swapping out your usual tub of butter for an organic option won’t result in instant weight loss. And just like any other food, eating too much of this healthy option can still cause you to pack on a few extra pounds. At the end of the day, the key to healthy weight loss is maintaining a balanced diet and consistently following smart habits. When combined with other changes, switching to organic, pasture-raised, or grass-fed butter is one small step in the right direction.