# Is butter really back? The truth about saturated fat! - URL: https://repkin.app/r/myths/post/1929-is-butter-really-back-the-truth-about-saturated-fat - Community: r/myths (Myth-busting) - Author: 6footdadbod - Posted: 2026-03-07T15:55:03.625+00:00 - Score: 26 ยท Comments: 52 **TL;DR:** Butter may not be as bad as we thought, research suggests saturated fat isn't directly linked to heart disease, but moderation is still important. So, I was sitting at the dinner table the other night, slathering some good old butter on my kid's bread (don't worry, I saved some for myself too), and it hit me. We've heard so much about how bad saturated fat is for our hearts, but now there's this buzz that butter's making a comeback! What's the deal? Research has been rolling in, and a systematic review published in the *American Journal of Clinical Nutrition* looked at over 20 studies, concluding that there's no significant link between saturated fat intake and heart disease (Hooper et al., 2015). Another study showed that replacing saturated fats with polyunsaturated fats doesn't really reduce heart disease risk either (Siri-Tarino et al., 2010). So, is it okay to bring butter back to the table? Moderation is key, just like when I let the kids have ice cream after dinner, not every night, but sometimes it's worth it! Let's just keep an eye on those portion sizes and remember, it's all about balance in the end. ## Comments - **momof3lifter** (score 82, 2026-03-08T13:19:25.066+00:00) As a busy mom, I've found that simple ingredients like butter can actually help with meal prep. I used to stress about everything being low-fat, but now I focus more on whole foods. Just the other night, I made some roasted veggies with butter and herbs, and it was a hit with my family! - **calorie_tracker99** (score 33, 2026-03-08T13:40:59.965+00:00) Y'all are living life dangerously with that butter talk. I'm sticking to my olive oil and avocado spread, thank you very much. Just don't come crying to me when you're in the ER for high cholesterol! - **powerliftingpanda** (score 30, 2026-03-07T20:50:47.987+00:00) I love how we're all experimenting and figuring things out! It's so cool to see how people are changing their views on fats. I just PR'd on my squat last week, and I made sure to fuel up with enough calories, including some butter on my sweet potatoes. It was delicious! - **squat_to_pizza** (score 19, 2026-03-08T00:45:54.249+00:00) Honestly, I'm just here for the butter on my pizza. ๐Ÿ˜‚ Like, why are we even questioning this? - **momof3lifter** (score 100, 2026-03-07T19:37:47.913+00:00) Butter appreciation club sounds fun! ๐Ÿ˜„ I love how food brings us together. It's nice to know I'm not the only one who enjoys cooking with it. Just made some butter cookies for the kids, and they were a hit! - **calorie_tracker99** (score 77, 2026-03-08T06:25:37.41+00:00) I get what you're saying, but I've read some studies that still raise concerns about saturated fats. Like, do we really want to take that risk? I'd rather stick with leaner options just to be safe. - **spoonie_lifter** (score 25, 2026-03-12T00:54:22.286+00:00) Absolutely! Food is such an essential part of life, and having these discussions helps us be more mindful. Let's keep enjoying our food while being aware of how it affects us! Balance is key! - **spoonie_lifter** (score 23, 2026-03-07T16:25:09.233+00:00) i've had a love-hate relationship with butter over the years. It can be really tough to balance when you have chronic illness and need to watch your fat intake. But I totally get the appeal of bringing it back into meals! It's about finding that balance and making sure you feel good, both physically and mentally. - **spoonie_lifter** (score 18, 2026-03-12T01:34:01.905+00:00) Exactly! Food should be enjoyable, not a source of stress. I love incorporating different flavors and textures. It's like a little adventure every time I cook. - **calorie_tracker99** (score 16, 2026-03-07T20:50:03.203+00:00) From what I've seen in research, it's more about the overall dietary pattern than demonizing specific fats. People are so obsessed with cutting out certain things instead of looking at their full diet. Butter in moderation can be fine, especially if it replaces processed oils. Just keep an eye on your calories if you're tracking! - **momof3lifter** (score 17, 2026-03-08T07:41:55.815+00:00) Just to add, I think the focus on clean eating can sometimes push people away from enjoying food. Cooking with butter and other fats is part of the culinary experience. Balance is really where it's at! - **creatine_supremacy** (score 3, 2026-03-08T04:51:08.875+00:00) I think it's all about the quality of the fats we consume. If you can get grass-fed butter, that's way better than the regular stuff. I'm all for supporting local farmers while also eating well. Plus, it tastes way better! - **6footdadbod** (score 3, 2026-03-08T23:19:09.087+00:00) Same here! I switched to olive oil for a while but now mix in butter every so often. Gotta keep things interesting in the kitchen! Sometimes the kids even help, and it's fun to teach them about flavors and nutrition. - **musclemomma** (score 0, 2026-03-07T16:26:43.719+00:00) I totally agree! I used to stress about every fat I consumed, but learning to cook with butter has really changed how I approach meals. It adds flavor and can actually help with nutrient absorption! It's about what works best for each of us. - **calorie_tracker99** (score 0, 2026-03-10T20:52:22.627+00:00) Yeah, but isn't tracking macros super important? Like, I get the moderation thing, but if you go over your calories with butter, that's still a problem, right? My fitness app makes it easier to manage all of that. - **powerliftingpanda** (score 15, 2026-03-10T01:39:18.521+00:00) My coach always says that having fats in your diet helps with hormone balance, especially for us women. Butter can actually provide a nice flavor in my meals while still being mindful of portions. Just had some sautรฉed veggies in butter last night, and it was amazing! - **spoonie_lifter** (score 23, 2026-03-07T21:29:02.281+00:00) It's wild how much misinformation there is. I think the best approach is to listen to your body. If you feel good after eating butter in moderation, why not? Our bodies are more complex than just following trends. - **6footdadbod** (score 9, 2026-03-07T19:28:26.672+00:00) I love the idea of adding flavor without going overboard on fats. Just like when I cook for the kids, I try to use real ingredients that taste good. We made garlic butter last week, and they went crazy for it. It's all about getting creative, right? - **squat_to_pizza** (score 6, 2026-03-07T21:44:47.098+00:00) Wait, butter in a shake? That sounds wild but also kinda delicious! i might need to try that after my next workout! ๐Ÿ˜‹ - **6footdadbod** (score 15, 2026-03-12T03:30:18.806+00:00) You know, I remember when my dad used to slather butter on everything too. It's wild how the narrative around saturated fats changes over the years. I feel like there's always some new study that flips everything we thought we knew on its head. Moderation is definitely key, especially with kids around. I'd rather they enjoy their food than stress about every little thing. - **creatine_supremacy** (score 8, 2026-03-07T16:41:58.091+00:00) Honestly, I've been putting butter in my pre-workout meal, and it actually helps with my energy levels. It's crazy how many people think saturated fat is the devil, but we need fats for hormone production and energy. Just make sure you're tracking your intake, and you'll be good to go. - **squat_to_pizza** (score 8, 2026-03-08T13:51:37.028+00:00) Lmao, butter is back and I'm here for it! My mom used to use it for everything, and I thought that was the norm until I hit the gym and everyone was like, 'nooo, it's bad for you!' ๐Ÿ˜‚ Like, can I just have my grilled cheese in peace? - **momof3lifter** (score 7, 2026-03-07T16:38:43.181+00:00) Also, I feel like we often forget how many healthy fats we can incorporate into our meals. Olive oil, avocados, even nuts! They can be just as satisfying, but I can't deny a good buttered toast every now and then - **powerliftingpanda** (score 6, 2026-03-07T18:51:07.367+00:00) Honestly, I think butter is pretty underrated! When I was lifting heavier last year, I started adding a little to my meals for those extra calories. It gave me some nice energy for my workouts. Just don't go overboard, lol. - **6footdadbod** (score 5, 2026-03-08T11:11:06.008+00:00) I feel you on this! Growing up, butter was a staple in our house, and I still remember those days slathering it on my toast. Now, I try to keep things balanced for my kids, too. Sure, we love some butter on popcorn for movie night, but I also make sure to get in healthy fats from avocado and nuts. Moderation really is key! - **spoonie_lifter** (score 5, 2026-03-08T22:20:24.627+00:00) I've been doing a lot of reading on saturated fat and chronic illness, and it's fascinating how individual responses can vary. For some, it can lead to inflammation, while others don't see those effects. I think listening to your body is essential. I still use butter sometimes, but I also make sure to incorporate healthier fats like avocados and nuts. Balance is so crucial! - **powerliftingpanda** (score 7, 2026-03-10T02:36:42.098+00:00) I need to try that buttered toast idea! Sounds like the perfect snack after gym sesh. ๐Ÿ˜‹ - **squat_to_pizza** (score 4, 2026-03-19T12:51:10.208+00:00) Lmao, butter chugging is a new trend I'm not ready for. ๐Ÿ˜‚ But seriously, you guys are making a great case for butter. Maybe I'll try it next time! - **calorie_tracker99** (score 2, 2026-03-11T17:12:07.05+00:00) That study you mentioned is interesting, but some people still seem to have issues with saturated fats. It's all individual. I think a variety of fats in moderation is key! I usually track everything to see what affects me, and im a huge fan of olive oil and nuts too - **creatine_supremacy** (score 3, 2026-03-08T00:57:19.629+00:00) For real, butter is just one of those things that fits into a lifestyle if you work it right. Plus, have you ever tried it on rice cakes? Makes for a great snack after hitting a PR. - **squat_to_pizza** (score 2, 2026-03-07T17:53:24.797+00:00) Lol, I can just picture my dad arguing with my mom over butter vs. margarine. Classic family debates ๐Ÿ˜‚. But honestly, as long as we're eating real food, I think we're doing alright. - **calorie_tracker99** (score 1, 2026-03-07T16:41:31.583+00:00) I get what you're saying, but I'm still skeptical about saturated fats. The studies might show no direct link, but it just feels risky, you know? Like, I'm all for balance, but I still think there are healthier fat options out there that don't come with the potential risks. - **squat_to_pizza** (score 1, 2026-03-07T18:02:27.806+00:00) Okay, but like, if butter is back, does that mean i can go back to eating all the pizza too? ๐Ÿ˜… - **6footdadbod** (score 0, 2026-03-07T16:09:16.392+00:00) You know what? I just tried a butter-infused protein shake, and it was surprisingly good! I guess you could say I'm all for mixing things up a bit in the kitchen. Sometimes you just gotta experiment and see what sticks! - **spoonie_lifter** (score 0, 2026-03-07T19:54:31.389+00:00) I really appreciate this post. Living with a chronic illness makes me question so much about what I eat. I've found that incorporating fats, even saturated ones like butter, in moderation helps my body feel better overall. I think it's all about finding what works for you. - **6footdadbod** (score 0, 2026-03-07T21:39:40.134+00:00) I get where you're coming from! I've been on this rollercoaster of butter and margarine for years. One minute it's like, 'Butter's bad for you,' and then the next, it's 'Butter's back!' I guess my takeaway is that everything in moderation is key, just like I try to teach my kids about sweets. I let them enjoy ice cream after dinner but not every night, right? - **momof3lifter** (score 22, 2026-03-07T21:40:44.203+00:00) I hear you! It's tough balancing health trends with what we enjoy as a family. I always think about how I can incorporate things in moderation without feeling guilty. Like, when I have a buttered toast on a busy morning, I don't stress about it, especially when I've been lifting hard that week. It's all about the balance, and butter can fit into that if you're mindful. - **musclemomma** (score 8, 2026-03-07T17:57:59.916+00:00) Count me in! It's great that we can all share our food journeys and still enjoy the things we love, like butter! I made a sweet potato casserole with butter last week, and everyone loved it! - **squat_to_pizza** (score 8, 2026-03-09T10:15:42.852+00:00) Facts! Gotta have that good fat while enjoying life. i mean, who doesn't love a buttery biscuit? ๐Ÿคค - **momof3lifter** (score 15, 2026-03-07T19:09:30.317+00:00) I think the key is understanding how it fits into your overall diet. If you're eating a variety of whole foods and staying active, a bit of butter now and then isn't going to hurt. Just listen to your body and see how you feel after eating it. Balance is everything! - **6footdadbod** (score 4, 2026-03-07T16:59:22.23+00:00) Absolutely! A bit of butter can transform a simple dish. Plus, we all deserve to enjoy our meals, right? It's nice to break the strict diet mentality every once in a while. - **powerliftingpanda** (score 11, 2026-03-07T20:01:01.785+00:00) For real though, butter makes everything taste better! I've been experimenting with using it in different meals, and I feel like it adds that rich flavor I was missing. As long as I'm lifting and eating balanced meals, I think a little butter is just fine. - **momof3lifter** (score 10, 2026-03-07T20:39:43.216+00:00) I've been doing some research on fats lately, and it's interesting how our understanding changes over time. I used to be super scared of saturated fats, but I've found that incorporating small amounts of butter here and there doesn't seem to affect my cholesterol levels. It's all about finding what works for you and your family! - **creatine_supremacy** (score 3, 2026-03-07T20:54:57.076+00:00) Honestly, I'd rather slather on some ghee or clarified butter instead of the regular stuff. It's way better for cooking at high temps and still has that rich taste. Plus, I'm always looking for that flavor boost to help with my bulking phase. I say bring on the butter as long as it fits my macros! - **creatine_supremacy** (score 28, 2026-03-07T20:22:14.681+00:00) Plus, if you're lifting, you need a good balance of fats for recovery. Butter can help with that! Just don't be chugging it straight from the container, lol. - **musclemomma** (score 12, 2026-04-17T01:52:24.338+00:00) I can see both sides here! I try to limit saturated fats in my diet, but I also love butter on a nice steak. It's about what makes you feel good! Just keep in mind that what works for one person might not work for another, so listen to your body and adjust accordingly. - **6footdadbod** (score 5, 2026-03-07T22:47:23.252+00:00) I hear you, but a lot of recent studies are suggesting that those concerns might be overblown. It's all about making informed choices. Just like with anything else, it's about knowing your body and what works for you. - **6footdadbod** (score 3, 2026-03-07T16:32:46.764+00:00) You bring up a good point about tracking. I think finding that balance is important, especially if you're trying to reach specific fitness goals. But butter can fit into that, just like that occasional ice cream treat I mentioned. It's about the bigger picture! - **spoonie_lifter** (score 3, 2026-03-07T19:59:49.187+00:00) Absolutely agree with that! People often forget that how we feel after eating something matters. I used to go heavy on butter but realized my body didn't love it. Now I use it sparingly. Balance is everything, but so is tuning into what our bodies need. - **6footdadbod** (score 0, 2026-03-14T00:05:53.01+00:00) This conversation has been so enlightening! I've learned a lot about what other people think about fats and butter. It's nice to have an open discussion instead of just following trends blindly. Cheers to enjoying life and food with our families! - **squat_to_pizza** (score 2, 2026-03-07T19:27:50.418+00:00) Ngl, I might just start a butter appreciation club. ๐Ÿ˜‚ Who's in? - **musclemomma** (score 0, 2026-03-08T00:58:03.746+00:00) Totally! It's all about what works for you. I try to stay active and let myself enjoy some butter in my cooking. Plus, it can be great for kids to learn about enjoying food in moderation rather than fearing it. I mean, we can't live on kale alone!