Health Guide

Butter oil

Butter oil is a concentrated nutritional supplement derived from butter, specifically from the milk fat of pasture-raised cows. Often associated with the research of Dr. Weston A. Price, it is rich in Activator X (now believed to be Vitamin K2), Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), and the 'Wulzen Factor' (an anti-stiffness substance). Unlike standard butter, this oil is typically extracted using a low-temperature centrifuge process to preserve delicate fat-soluble vitamins. It is considered a 'superfood' in traditional nutrition circles for its ability to help the body absorb minerals and support hormonal health.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Butter oil
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Vitamin K2 Content: Butter vs. Butter Oil

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Vitamin K2 Activity (Relative)
Product

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Mineral Absorption: Rich in Vitamin K2, which directs calcium to your bones and teeth rather than your arteries.
  • Hormonal Balance: Provides cholesterol and precursors essential for producing hormones like testosterone and estrogen.
  • Joint Health: Contains the 'Wulzen Factor,' which may protect against calcification of joints (arthritis).

Deep Dive

Butter oil is distinct because it isolates the nutrient-dense fraction of butter. While regular butter is healthy, butter oil offers these nutrients in higher concentrations. The star player here is Vitamin K2. Modern diets are often K2-deficient, leading to calcium being deposited in arteries (bad) instead of bones (good). By taking butter oil, you support the 'traffic control' system of your body, ensuring minerals go where they belong. Additionally, the Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) found in grass-fed butter oil has been studied for its potential to support lean body mass and metabolic health.

Natural Food Sources

True butter oil is a concentrated supplement, but you can get the active compounds (Vitamin K2, CLA) from these whole foods:

FoodAmount% DV (Vitamin K2/CLA)
Gouda Cheese1 oz~20% DV (K2)
Grass-Fed Butter1 tbsp~2% DV (K2) + CLA
Pasture-Raised Egg Yolks2 large~10% DV (K2)
Chicken Liver3 oz~15% DV (K2)
Natto (Fermented Soy)1 ozVery High (K2)

Supplementation

Dosage: A common therapeutic dosage is 1 teaspoon (5ml) daily, often taken with a meal containing minerals (like magnesium or calcium). Who should take it: Individuals with poor bone density, those on a 'whole food' diet looking to optimize nutrient density, or people wanting to avoid synthetic Vitamin K supplements. Note: For maximum benefit, look for 'Spring Butter Oil' or 'High Vitamin Butter Oil' derived exclusively from pasture-raised cows grazing on green grass. The nutrient content drops significantly in grain-fed cows.

Top Food Sources

Gouda Cheese
Aged cheese is rich in K2
Grass-Fed Butter
Eat raw or melted gently
Pasture-Raised Egg Yolks
Look for deep orange yolks
Chicken Liver
Concentrated nutrient source
Natto
Fermented soy, potent K2 source

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Ghee is usually simmered to evaporate water and milk solids. Butter oil is typically a raw, centrifugally separated product that preserves heat-sensitive vitamins like 'Activator X' (K2) which can be destroyed by the heating process of making ghee.
It requires a high volume of milk from strictly grass-fed cows to produce a small amount of oil. The processing is also specialized to keep the vitamins intact.
It is best taken raw or added to warm (not boiling) foods to preserve the delicate vitamins. High heat will degrade the nutritional value.
Dr. Price's research suggested that the 'Activator X' in butter oil (combined with Vitamin D) could help remineralize tooth enamel and prevent cavities.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety & Interactions

Side Effects: Generally very safe. Mild digestive upset can occur if taken in very large quantities. Interactions: Butter oil is high in Vitamin K. CRITICAL WARNING: If you are taking blood thinners (Warfarin/Coumadin), Vitamin K can interfere with the medication's effectiveness. Consult your doctor before adding this to your regimen. Allergies: Avoid if you have a dairy allergy, as it is a concentrated milk product.

Scientific References

  • [1]Price, W. A. (1945). *Nutrition and Physical Degeneration*. (The foundational text on Vitamin K2/Activator X).
  • [2]Geelen, M. J. H., et al. (1997). 'Absorption of conjugated linoleic acid in humans.' *American Journal of Clinical Nutrition*.
  • [3]Schurgers, L. J., et al. (2007). 'Vitamin K: the effect on health beyond coagulation.' *Thrombosis and Haemostasis*.