This issue is still as hot today as when it first arose. To examine which one is better for heart health, let's look at the fat content of both butter and margarine.
Butter, as an animal fat, contains both saturated fats and cholesterol – the two dietary ingredients that increase blood cholesterol. Saturated fats can raise LDL cholesterol (also known as "bad" cholesterol), which raises total blood cholesterol as well. Cholesterol in foods, on the other hand, has little effect on blood cholesterol in most people. But for some, even a little dietary cholesterol can cause a soar in blood cholesterol levels
The Heart and Stroke Foundation recommends the use of margarine as a substitute for butter. It is gratifying that many brands of soft margarine do not contain trans fat anymore. Check the Nutrition Facts label and choose one with zero trans fat and no more than 2 g of saturated fats per tbsp and with liquid vegetable oil as the first ingredient.
Which one should you choose? Every food choice has to be considered in context of your diet as a whole and that all fats should be eaten in moderation. But also remember that not all fats are created equal – it’s not just the quantity, but also the type of fat you consume that you need to pay attention to.
For example, a healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats may reduce the risk of heart disease. Many margarines are now low in saturated and trans fat. In fact, Becel for example has 80% less saturated fat than butter. Becel is also trans fat-free, cholesterol free, and a source of omega-3 polyunsaturates. Butter isn’t.
Becel has some great information on their website – Becel.ca Check it out and you decide! In the meantime take care and stay healthy.
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