8 Ways to Escape the Trans Fat Trap

1. Choose soft margarines rather than hard block margarines and look for brands with no trans fats. It may be shown as hydrogenated fat or oil.

2. Use olive oil for sautéing.

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

4. 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.

5. Shop around the perimeter of the grocery store. Most processed foods, which contain a lot of trans fats, are on the inner aisles.

6. When you do buy processed foods, choose trans-fat-free versions of cookies, cereals and desserts.

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).

8. 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.