BUTTER.... Good for you?? YAY or NAY??

 I'm so happy to find out that butter is making a comeback as a "health" food, (grass-fed butter that is) because I love it, we broke up for a while but I made amends and use it in my cooking often. In my home, it is high quality and organic and (usually, except for right this moment while I detox) it goes in everything from oatmeal to fresh tomato sauce to green beans. It makes food taste better and the best part is, it is loaded with health benefits. Here are a few reasons why you should re-introduce real butter into your lifestyle, plus a recipe that might also get your kiddies to eat their vegetables without a fight.

Butter...

is rich in fat-soluble vitamins A, E and K2, which puts it in the "super food" category.
contains key health supporting nutrients and minerals including lecithin, selenium, magnesium, zinc, copper and iodine

contains anti-oxidants that protect against free radical damage and weakening arteries.

has strong anti-tumor and anti-cancer properties due to its level of saturated fats.

contains conjugated linoleic acid, which is a potent anti-cancer agent, muscle builder, and immunity booster.

aids in the absorption of calcium.

helps prevent tooth decay.

prevents hardening of the arteries, cataracts, and calcification of the pineal gland.

may help promote fertility in women.

is a source of quick energy, and is not stored in the body's adipose tissue.

helps brain, bones and teeth development in unborn and young children.

contains Arachidonic Acid (AA), which plays a role in brain function and is a vital component of cell membranes.

is a great source of the fatty acid butyrate.

is associated with a lower risk of obesity.

This is the short list...there are many, many benefits to eating butter. Since America's butter consumption has declined in favor of processed margarine, Alzheimer's, obesity, diabetes, and consequently, heart disease, have sky-rocketed. Plus, new studies show that there is "no association between saturated fat and heart disease." It's something to consider.

Here is the recipe for your kids' favorite Green Beans:

Steam a bunch of fresh green beans for three minutes

Add a tablespoon (or two) of organic "grass-fed" butter (it's the healthiest)

Add the zest of one organic lemon

Squeeze the juice of 1-2 lemons

Sprinkle course sea salt over top

Replace lid and shake

I put them in a bowl and place it right in the center of the dinner table. The big guy will start grabbing them before I even sit down. Seriously though, my guests just love them. Adding organic butter along with a variety of other healthy oils and fats into your diet supplies your body with essential fatty acids for longevity, hormone balance, heart health, sharp vision, glowing skin and energy. As is usually the case, with anything this good, the key is moderation.