Butter contains saturated fat, which can raise bad (LDL) cholesterol and increase the risk of heart disease. Margarine, specifically the stuff that comes in a stick, contains trans fats, which increase LDL cholesterol and lower healthy (HDL) cholesterol. So what's better -- butter or margarine?

It's best to abandon both options in their pure forms. Choose a soft-tub of vegetable spread instead. Look for trans-fat-free labels, which usually indicate that the product is low in saturated fat too. And if you're looking to cut calories, opt for a tub advertised as reduced fat or light.