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Buttermilk

In season all year

Food Description:

There is a misconception that buttermilk is high-fat and buttery, when in fact it contains no butter and is lower in fat than regular milk. Old-fashioned buttermilk is the slightly sour, residual liquid that remains after butter is churned. It is slightly thicker than milk with a flavour somewhat like yoghurt.

General Information:

Category: Dairy
To Buy: Most commercial varieties are salted, so check the label if you are on a sodium-restricted diet.
To Store: Store in the refrigerator and serve well-chilled.
Tips and Tricks: Irish folklore claims a glass of buttermilk will cure a hangover, and when heated with a clove of garlic, it was sure to cure any variety of ailments. Many pioneer women used buttermilk as a facial wash, believing the flecks of butter brought a smooth and creamy complexion.

Nutrition (1 Cup):

Energy (kJ): 629
Low GI < 55: Glycaemic Index refers to the rate at which carbohydrate rich foods are converted to glucose for energy by the body; Low GI carbohydrtes release glucose is released slowly into the bloodstream and help to regulate energy levels and insulin production.
Fat (g): 5.2
Monosaturated Fat , g: 1.6
Niacin (B3):
Calcium: The most abundant mineral in the body, calcium is essential for health of bones and teeth, and also for nerve transmission, cardiovascular health, muscle contraction and blood clotting.
Potassium: Needed for normal growth and muscle and nerve contraction. Together with sodium regulates water and fluid balance in the body.
Phosphorus: Closely related to calcium, this mineral is an important component of bones and teeth and helps maintain the body's energy supply and pH levels.
Amines: Amines come the breakdown or fermentation of proteins. High amounts are found in cheese, chocolate, wine, beer and yeast extracts. Smaller amounts are present in some fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, avocados, bananas. For those with sensitivities, low foods are almost never a problem, moderate and high foods may cause reactions, depending on how sensitive you are and how much is eaten. Very high foods will most often cause unwanted symptoms in sensitive individuals. Negligible
Glutamates: Glutamate is found naturally in many foods, as part of protein. It enhances the flavour of food, which is why foods rich in natural glutamates such as tomatoes, mushrooms and cheeses are commonly used in meals. Pure monosodium glutamate (MSG) is used as an additive to artificially flavour many processed foods, and should be avoided, especially in sensitive individuals as it can cause serious adverse reactions. n/a
Carbohydrates, g: 14.0
Protein (g): 10.9
Saturated Fat, g : 3.4
Vitamin A: Often called the "anti-infective" vitamin, it protects the mucous membranes of the body, reducing chance of infection and enhancing the immune system's response. Necessary for growth and maintenenance of bones, teeth and body tissues and healthy foetal development, this vitamin is also important for night vision. Contraindications: Taken in excess will accumulate in the body.
Vitamin B12: Maintains the health and function of the nervous system, and is involved in the growth and division of all cells, including red blood cells. Also plays a role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fat and protein.
Zinc: Antioxidant and immune boosting, zinc fights infection and plays a role in wound healing. It is essential for growth and health of reproductive organs, especially the prostate. Needed for healthy hair, skin and nails. Also necessary for bone formation.
Magnesium: Involved in energy production and proper functioning of muscles and nerves, magnesium also promotes the absorption of other minerals and promotes blood vessel dilation and lowers the risk of blood clots.
Sodium: Helps to maintain water levels in the body and is involved in secretion of gastric juices and nutrient transport. High amounts of sodium may lead to water retention and high blood pressure if it is not adequately excreted.
Salicylates: Naturally occurring plant chemicals found in several fruits, vegetables, nuts, herbs and spices, jams, honey, yeast extracts, tea and coffee, juices, beer and wines. Also present in flavourings, perfumes, scented toiletries and some medications. For those with sensitivities, low foods are almost never a problem, moderate and high foods may cause reactions, depending on how sensitive you are and how much is eaten. Very high foods will most often cause unwanted symptoms in sensitive individuals. Low

Cooking:

Cooking Tips: If you have no buttermilk, you can make your own substitute, but go for the real thing if you can. Yoghurt can be substituted for buttermilk, volume for volume.

Benefits the Following Health Conditions:*

Osteoporosis

* This information is sourced by a qualified naturopath. It is non prescriptive and not intended as a cure for the condition. Recommended intake is not provided. It is no substitute for the advice and treatment of a professional practitioner.



Disclaimer:
The Food Coach provides all content as is, without warranty. The Food Coach is not responsible for errors or omissions, or consequences of improper preparation, user allergies, or any other consequence of food preparation or consumption.