Ask the Diva: What’s a Healthy Butter Substitute?
Is there such a thing as a healthy butter substitute? Nutrition Diva’s “Better Butter.”
Monica Reinagel, MS, LD/N, CNS
Q. Can you recommend a healthy butter substitute without a lot of saturated fat, somewhat low in calories and with no harmful oils or ingredients? I think I am asking for the impossible.
Answer. I can definitely satisfy two out of three of your requirements. As I described in my recent appearance on the Dr. Oz Show, you can make a healthy and delicious butter spread by blending 1 stick of butter with ½ cup of any healthy oil, such as olive, canola, flax, or hemp oil.
You’ll get great butter taste with only half the saturated fat—along with added benefits (such as heart healthy omega-3 fats) from the oil. But I’m afraid that my “Better Butter” is just as high in calories as regular butter or oil…about 120 calories per tablespoon. Then again, because it is smooth and spreadable right out of the refrigerator, you can spread it as thinly as you like! One teaspoon (40 calories) should be more than enough for a piece of toast.
Butter Slicesopens IMAGE file photo from Shutterstock.
About the Author
Monica Reinagel is a board-certified licensed nutritionist, author, and the creator of one of iTunes’ most highly ranked health and fitness podcasts. Her advice is regularly featured on the TODAY show, Dr. Oz, NPR, and in the nation’s leading newspapers, magazines, and websites. Do you have a nutrition question? Call the Nutrition Diva listener line at 443-961-6206. Your question could be featured on the show.