Go Ahead and Eat Dessert…It Can be Good for you!

By Amanda Tucker · March 6, 2009 · Filed in Food and Drink

When people think about eating better, they often focus on how difficult it will be or how much they have to change. With what seems like a new diet popping up everyday, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and unsure of where to start. Focusing on making small changes in your diet can make a big impact.

For example, when many people decide to make dietary changes, dessert is usually the first thing to go. According to Micki Sannar, an Instructor of Nutritional Cuisine based in Highlands, UT, substituting olive oil for ingredients like butter and shortening in your recipes can lower cholesterol and prevent heart disease. She suggests the following techniques:

Oliveoil

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Use pure olive oil when creating sweet desserts.
Always spray baking pans with olive oil to prevent sticking, including cookie sheets.
Try experimenting with your favorite dessert recipes. For each cup of butter, margarine or shortening, use about 2/3 – 3/4 cup olive oil.
When baking non-sweet breads and other foods, don’t be afraid to use extra virgin or virgin olive oil. It tastes fantastic and it’s good for you.

“The great thing about cooking and baking with olive oil is that you can still get the same great taste out of your recipes,” said Sannar.

Making small changes in your diet can help you establish better eating habits and you’ll see the health benefits in no time!