As a mom, I want to make foods for my family that taste good and are good for them. Sometimes I do this by altering a recipe to make it a bit healthier but still taste good.  For some recipes, I reduce the amount of an ingredient. In others, I substitute one ingredient for another. Small changes can make a big difference in the amount of fat, salt, sugar and fiber in a dish.

Here are some ways I alter recipes to make them healthier:

• Reduce the amount of sugar by 1/3.
• Replace ¼ to ½ of refined flour with whole-wheat flour.
• Use plain yogurt instead of sour cream.
• Substitute skim or low-fat milk for whole milk.
• Use whole grains in place of refined grains.

For more ways to alter recipes for better health, use this guide by Purdue Extension.  Try making one change at a time so you can see what works best for your recipe and what your family likes. And some recipes, like family traditions, might be best to enjoy as they are!