Not all calories are the same. Research shows that the fats you eat are easily converted to fat in the body, whereas carbohydrates require more energy to be converted to fat and are used by the body primarily as an energy source. Cholesterol is found only in foods of animal origin. Only exercise, along with a healthy diet builds muscles. Saturated fat raises blood cholesterol levels more than anything else you eat.
Food labels list ingredients by weight, with the largest amount first.
Limit the use of foods that list fat or oil first, or that list several fat ingredients. Reducing fat intake doesn't mean you can't enjoy eating out any more. Look for foods that are steamed, poached, broiled or fresh. Ask that the sauce be left off your sandwich or entree and for salad dressing to be served on the side. Try fresh fruit, angel food cake, lowfat frozen yogurt, or fruit ices for dessert.