Lowering the Fat in Holiday Treats

Eggnog:
Use mostly egg whites or egg substitute instead of whole eggs. Use fat-free half and half or evaporated fat-free milk instead of their whole milk counterparts. Substitute rum extract for the alcohol if you want the taste without the effect.

Cakes, Bars and Muffins:
Use heart-healthy canola oil instead of butter, or use applesauce or mashed bananas if you want to cut the fat completely. Other fruit purees will work too. If you must use shortening, there is at least a trans-fat-free version available. Substitute egg whites for whole eggs in cakes and quick breads. Use cocoa powder instead of chocolate in your baked goods to add a rich chocolatey flavor without the fat, or use smaller quantities of miniature chocolate chips instead of the regular versions. Dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips add more flavor than milk chocolate ones.

Cookies:
The key here is to cut the fat rather than eliminate it altogether. If you take the butter out completely, the end result is not very satisfying in terms of texture or taste. Many recipes that typically call for a whole stick of butter or more can be made over with about half that quantity. Avoid using whipped butter or tub margarine: the air and water content in these makes them unsuitable for baking. Again, consider using cocoa for a rich chocolaty flavor and add smaller quantities of chocolate chips. Try some of these Low Fat Christmas Cookie options.

Nuts:
In moderation, these make a great holiday snack. True, nuts are high in fat and dense in calories, but most of the fat is unsaturated. Some are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help protect the heart. Nuts are also an excellent source of B vitamins, as well as iron, zinc and potassium.

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*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Holiday Eating Tips

If you're following a low fat diet, the holiday season is a mixed blessing, especially coming so soon after Thanksgiving. As wonderful as it is to be among family and friends for the holidays, it's hard to say no to all those tempting holiday treats that are passed around. Seemingly, you have two choices: abandon your good intentions and regret it later, or abstain and be miserable.

Fortunately, there is another option: choose wisely and still enjoy yourself. Better still, if you are hosting a holiday celebration, you can control what's offered and adjust many of the recipes to make them lower in fat.

As always, moderation and portion control rule. Too much of anything can add unwanted pounds and be unhealthy. Reducing fat is not an excuse to feast on lots of sugary holiday treats. But if you want to eat a sugar cookie and drink a little low fat eggnog, or have a slice of fruitcake and some mulled cider, you can.

Make sure you compensate elsewhere; not by skipping meals, but by saying no to second helpings, by filling up with fruit and vegetables, and drinking plenty of water to aid digestion and keep you feeling full for longer.

And don't forget to exercise: a brisk walk, running up the stairs, skating with the kids, or a proper workout, will all help burn excess holiday calories.

Saltine Cracker Toffee

Toffee is one of those holiday treats everyone loves but it is full of fat. This recipe gives you the same great flavor of toffee but with a lot less fat. Its a lot easier to make and nearly impossbile to mess up!

Saltine Cracker Toffee
Ingredients:
1/4 pound (1 sleeve) saltine crackers
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup butter
1 cup dark brown sugar
3/4 cup chopped pecans

Directions:
Preheat oven to 400-degrees. Line cookie sheet with saltine crackers in a single layer.
In a saucepan combine the sugar and the butter. Bring to a boil and boil for 3 minutes. Immediately pour over Saltine Crackers and spread the mixture to cover the crackers completely.
Bake for 5 or 6 minutes. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips over the top and let sit for 5 minutes. Spread melted chocolate over all the crackers and sprinkle top with chopped pecan nuts. Cool completely (4 or more hours) and break into pieces

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Sneak in Some Nutrients!

Here are ways to get some nutrients in your holiday treats with the use of dried fruits, nuts, spices, whole-grain cereals and even chocolate. Fruits and nuts are rich in antioxidants; cinnamon suppresses blood sugar spikes; chocolate may help your heart and your mood.

Avoid Stress While Eating:

When we are stressed, our digestion can be compromised, causing problems like colitis and heartburn. Avoid eating while working, driving, arguing, or watching TV (especially disturbing programs or the news). Try taking some deep breaths prior to beginning your meal, or light candles and play soothing music to create a relaxing atmosphere.

Holiday Eating a Little Wiser:

Keep portions moderate, especially high calorie food. In recent years serving sizes have ballooned, particularly in restaurants. Choose a starter instead of an entree,split a dish with a friend, and don't supersize ANYTHING!