A traditional Thanksgiving dinner is rarely an example of heart-friendly nutrition. Cardiologists are well aware of this, and many allow themselves to relax their usual habits for the holiday. Dr. Marc Eisenberg, a clinical cardiologist and associate professor of medicine at Columbia University Medical Center in New York, previously noted that avoiding festive dishes entirely can backfire, leading to overeating later. He advises most people to simply enjoy the celebration in moderation.
Still, heart specialists tend to avoid certain foods during the feast. One item they consistently set aside is butter. All of the cardiologists interviewed by TODAY.com explained that they skip butter on Thanksgiving to protect their cardiovascular health. Eisenberg described butter as one of the least healthy options on the table. Dr. Susan Cheng from the Smidt Heart Institute at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles added that it is often used far more than necessary to achieve flavor. Dr. Sean Heffron of NYU Langone Health even adjusted his grandmothers stuffing recipe to remove butter entirely.
The experts highlight that butter contains substantial amounts of animal fat and cholesterol. A 2025 study in JAMA Internal Medicine reported an association between higher butter consumption and increased mortality, while replacing butter with plant oils such as olive oil may help lower the risk of early death. According to the U S Department of Agriculture, over half of butters total fat is saturated fat. A single pat contains about 3 grams of saturated fat, 52 calories and nearly 6 grams of total fat. Excess intake of saturated fat can elevate LDL cholesterol, which contributes to arterial blockage. The American Heart Association recommends limiting saturated fat to 13 grams per day, meaning two pats of butter account for roughly half that daily limit.
Dietitians suggest olive oil, mashed avocado and nut butters as healthier alternatives. Researchers emphasize moderation rather than complete elimination. Yu Zhang, author of the 2025 JAMA study, told NBC News that even small reductions in butter intake combined with increased use of plant based oils could offer meaningful long term benefits.
This story is part of TODAYs Expert Tip of the Day series, which shares practical guidance on nutrition, fitness, heart health and overall wellbeing from trusted specialists, Monday through Friday. The original version appeared on TODAY.com.