Lard or butter: what is actually healthier for the heart according to nutritionists.

According to ТСН: Butter is traditionally considered a benchmark of healthy fat and occupies its place in the daily diet, as well as in our understanding of healthy eating. In contrast, lard often raises skepticism due to potential risks for the heart. However, new data from nutrition science forces us to reconsider this opinion.

Naturalness and composition: what is the difference

Butter is a concentrated dairy fat obtained during processing, and it is not found in nature. Lard, on the other hand, is a natural product with minimal processing, making its composition more stable and understandable. Butter contains significantly more cholesterol — about 215 mg compared to 94 mg in lard. Additionally, almost half of butter is composed of saturated fats, while in lard they make up less — about 39%.

Which fats affect the heart

Butter predominately contains palmitic, myristic, and stearic acids, the excess of which is associated with a high risk of cardiovascular diseases. At the same time, lard is rich in oleic acid (omega-9), which is beneficial for vascular health, containing twice as much as butter. Experts also point to arachidonic acid, which constitutes about 2% of lard, while in butter, it is only 0.2%. This substance is important for the brain, heart, kidneys, and eyes. Moreover, lard contains more selenium, which is necessary for the immune system and antioxidant protection.

Heat resistance and safety when frying

Another advantage of lard is its behavior when heated. It has a higher melting point and does not produce benzo(a)pyrene — a dangerous carcinogen that can appear when overheating certain fats. Therefore, lard is considered safer for cooking at high temperatures.

Should you give up butter

Experts emphasize that butter is not a harmful product. The problem lies in its excessive consumption. Due to its high fat concentration, it should be consumed in moderation, adding a small amount to prepared dishes.

Thus, traditional Ukrainian lard is not only an element of the national cuisine but also a well-balanced animal fat that can prove to be healthier than conventional butter if consumed wisely.

Interestingly, lard is actively used not only in cooking but also in folk medicine, where it is valued for its potential health benefits. With new research, dietary habits may change — lard could find its rightful place alongside other healthy products. The key is to maintain balance and eat a varied diet.