Last month, our newsletter referred to ideas on how to cut fat sources during the holidays; i.e., choosing cookies made from margarine versus butter. It would have been better for us to discuss the pros and cons of baking with margarine versus butter to reduce saturated fat. Usually margarine and butter have the same amount of calories unless the label indicates that it is a lower-fat margarine.

A healthier choice is to use such lower-fat margarine, or even cut the recipe-required amount for butter/margarine in half and substitute applesauce for the other half. Other options include using products such as Smart Balance, which can be a little more expensive but is a healthier heart choice. Keep in mind that when using soft tub margarines such as Smart Balance for baking, your final product will vary in consistency, texture, and form compared to the higher-fat product.

Another great idea for reducing calories is to use smaller portions, especially with sweets and high-fat choices. Smaller cookies and serving sizes are the key to helping with weight control and/or weight loss. Remember that less food fits on smaller plates.

Read other Nutrition Corner articles at http://www.ncpad.org/content/12/Health~Promotion~Nutrition.