Is butter healthy? Five reasons to eat Krishna's favourite!

Zee Media Bureau

New Delhi; Butter is a kitchen essential and is actually a very beneficial part of your diet, considering the immense health benefits that if gives if taken in moderation.

Over the years, the white substance, which is made from churning fresh or fermented cream or milk, has been unfairly blamed for cardiovascular disease, mostly due to the high saturated fat content.

However, recent research has suggested that consuming butter in limited quantities may not increase the risk of heart disease or stroke, instead it might actually be slightly protective against diabetes. Butter has also been found as a healthier choice in comparison to sugar and starch-enriched food like white bread or potatoes.

On the occasion of Janmashtami, we bring you a few health benefits of butter, one which Lord Krishna loved so much and that didn't even stop him from stealing it.

• Butter is rich in fat soluble vitamins - vitamins A, E and K2 – which can have powerful health benefits. Vitamin A is necessary for thyroid and adrenal health.
• Butter contains anti-oxidants that protect against free radical damage.
• Butter contains a lot of healthy saturated fats that have strong anti-tumor and anti-cancer properties.
• Contrary to the belief that butter is fattening due to its high fat and calories content, it does not promote weight gain and obesity when eaten in normal amounts as part of a healthy diet.
• Butter contains lecithin, essential for cholesterol metabolism.