Healthy Fats: 8 Ways to Avoid Trans Fats and Improve Your Diet

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1. Go Soft on Margerine

Choose soft margarines instead of hard block variety and look for brands with no trans fats. It may be shown as hydrogenated fat or oil.

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2. Sauté the Right Way

When preparing your vegetables or meats in a pan, use olive oil for sautéing.

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3. Change Your Salad Topping

Sprinkle flaked or chopped nuts or sunflower seeds on salads instead of bacon bits.

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4. Swap in Healthier Snacks

Snack on a small handful of unsalted nuts or a box of raisins rather than potato chips. Or try peanut butter on celery stalks, carrots or rice cakes.

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5. Stick to the Outer Edge

Shop around the perimeter to make your next grocery store visit a healthier one. Most processed foods, which contain a lot of trans fats, are on the inner aisles.

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6. Avoid Trans Fats

If you have to buy processed foods, choose trans-fat-free versions of cookies, cereals and desserts. Check the nutrion facts table on the label to be sure.

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7. Skip Fast-food Fries

Order a side salad, a plain baked potato or a healthy alternative such as fresh fruit (now becoming available at more fast-food chains).

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8. Do Your Own Baking

When you have time, make your own scones, waffles and cakes instead of using store-bought versions or a mix packed with trans fats. Make extra and freeze some.