Guest Author - Vanette (Vannie) Ryanes

Nutrition regiments can keep you rested and healthy but sometimes they are hard to follow. If you are switching to a low or no cholesterol diet, hot and spicy is a great way to go because you don't miss the bad fats. In 2004 we will be looking at some delicious tasting low and no colesterol recipes.

Whether you've been ordered by your doctor to lower your cholesterol intake or you're doing it of your own accord, the transition can be difficult. Here are some pointers to get you started:

1. Overcoming the urge to eat fatty foods is frustrating when those around you do not follow or are not supportive of your new diet. The following suggestions may help you and your family:

-Try your hand at a few low/no cholesterol recipes, something you think you (and they) would like.

-Take the family out to dinner at a good vegetarian restaurant.

-Stock your kitchen with veggie burgers and other foods so you always have a cholesterol-free option.

2. Try grocery shopping at your local health food store. The key is to buy whatever looks good to you. If you don't like it, don't buy it again.

3. Become a label reader.

5. Read as much as you can on the subject articles, books, recipe books, whatever you can get your hands on.