Is it healthy to drink buttermilk daily? Find out what the experts say

 

Expert opinion from Faith Seke

PhD, Agronomy and Crop Science (ongoing), Master's degree, Food Science and Technology · 1 years of experience · South Africa

• According to studies, consuming a small amount of buttermilk each day can assist persons with high cholesterol and triglyceride levels lower their cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Because high cholesterol is linked to heart disease and strokes, keeping your cholesterol levels in a reasonable range is essential for your overall health. Buttermilk is high in probiotics, which are live bacteria that are beneficial to our gut health and digestion. A increasing amount of evidence suggests that probiotic-rich foods or beverages can aid in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive health disorders.

Expert opinion from Michael Colangelo

Master of Science (M.S.) in Nutrition · 15 years of experience · USA

• Cultured buttermilk is a fermented and tart liquid that contains active cultures, popularly called probiotics, which are essentially the microbes found naturally in our gastrointestinal system that support immunity, digestion, and nutrient absorption. Fermented dairy products that contain these microorganisms have been linked to lower risk of coronary heart disease. Both low fat and full fat versions of buttermilk fit into a health-promoting diet. Buttermilk is most commonly used in recipes like salad dressings and baked goods, but it can also be consumed as a beverage. Individuals who enjoy drinking buttermilk regularly should continue to do so in the context of a healthy diet that contains a variety of fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi, tempeh, and unpasteurized sauerkraut.

Expert opinion from Christos Sittas

MSc in Nutrition and Exercise Sciences · 3 years of experience · UK

• Buttermilk is healthy to be consumed on a daily basis instead of other dairy options. It is very high in calcium, phosphorus, vitamin K, and vitamin D, four micronutrients that are essential for bone health.

Expert opinion from Lucía Ramos

Bachelor of Science · 8 years of experience · Argentina

• Drinking buttermilk on a daily basis is healthy unless you add sugar to it. It is recommended to limit the consumption of dairy products to two or three servings per day, including buttermilk.

Expert opinion from Leticia Lira

Nutritionist · 2 years of experience · Brazil

• Yes, the consumption of buttermilk daily does not hurt! It is a source of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D, strengthening bones and preventing bone diseases, such as osteoporosis for example.