Almost everyone today is trying to eat healthier.  I am among them.  This month the American Heart Association's fantastic collection of recipes is reissued in its seventh edition.  The weight of the book is proof alone that they did not skimp on the recipes!  All recipes are geared towards reducing the amount of fat you eat and range from appetizers to desserts.

I am delighted to say that there are hundreds of recipes that I am dying to test out.  Perfect timing considering that the start to the holiday season is a week away!  Here is only a small sampling of the recipes you will find:  Oven-Fried Scallops with Cilantro and Lime, Artichoke-Tomato Pizza, Three-Cheese Vegetable Strudel, Cinnamon Orange Pancakes, and Strawberries with Champagne Ice.

You'll also find much more than recipes.  A comprehensive chapter on dietary guidelines, cholesterol, and portions is also included.

The thing that does bother me is that some recipes call for the light margarine products.  My doctor recently said they are as bad for you as butter, their fat content confirms that for me.  I was told to stick to olive oil when at all possible.  Its mild taste and incredible benefits make it a staple in my household.  You can bake with it without issue; trust me, I use it all the time.

Another issue is the amount of sugar that is used in the book.  Sugar is discussed as having no affect on your heart, which is true, however it is not that beneficial in general.  With diabetes on the rise, I personally don't agree with promoting sugary recipes.  There are other alternatives --Splenda, Stevia (an herb) and even Agave Nectar which tastes just like honey but has a very low glycemic index!

I certainly plan on using this cookbook all the time.  However, on a quest to cut white flour and sugar, there will be plenty of substitutions made along the way.