Buttermilk is a low-calorie and low-fat source of vitamins B12 and riboflavin, potassium, calcium, and phosphorous. It aids digestion and is often tolerated by lactose intolerant individuals. Buttermilk can also help with weight loss and heartburn. It can be substituted for whole milk in recipes.
The main health benefits of buttermilk come from its high vitamin and mineral content, particularly vitamin B12, riboflavin, and potassium. Buttermilk is also considered a digestive aid, and is often tolerated by many who are lactose intolerant. Buttermilk benefits that would be important to those trying to lose weight, or suffering from obesity-related conditions, would include its low calorie and low fat content.
Buttermilk is a good source of vitamin B12, which is responsible for helping to synthesize fats and amino acids. B12 is also believed to help fight anemia, stress, and may help promote nerve cell growth. One of the main benefits of vitamin B12 is that it helps convert glucose in the body into energy. Those who suffer from a B12 deficiency often feel weak and may suffer from constipation and insomnia.
Riboflavin and potassium are also found in buttermilk. Potassium is believed to help lower blood pressure, and like vitamin B12, riboflavin helps convert food into energy. Buttermilk is also considered a good source of calcium and phosphorous, both of which can contribute to bone health.
Other benefits of buttermilk apply to diet and weight loss. Buttermilk is lower in calories and fat than whole milk, and even some low-fat milks. Some research indicates that excessive consumption of foods high in calories and fat can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Buttermilk generally has just over half the calories found in whole milk and three-fourths less fat per serving.
One of the most important health benefits of buttermilk is its ease of digestion. Many people who have trouble digesting whole milk may find that they don’t have the same digestion issues after drinking buttermilk. This could be because difficulty digesting milk often stems from lactose intolerance, and whey is lactose-free. The lactose in buttermilk has already been changed to lactic acid, which is generally much gentler on the digestive tract.
Buttermilk can also help the stomach remove acids that cause heartburn and indigestion. It covers the lining of the stomach, which helps prevent acids from going up the esophagus. Some ulcer sufferers claim that drinking a glass of buttermilk with meals helps keep ulcer breakouts to a minimum.
For those who want to add the health benefits of buttermilk to their daily diet, it can be a simple matter of substituting buttermilk in recipes that call for whole milk. In most cases, the two types of milk are interchangeable, with many cooks claiming that buttermilk is actually better for baked goods than whole milk. Buttermilk is also often preferred for cooking foods with crusts, such as fried chicken and fish.
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