In class we talked briefly about the differences between margarine and butter, so I was curious about whether there were any health differences between the two. Originally, margarine contained high levels of trans fat, but after the FDA publicized the health problems associated with trans fats, most companies removed them. In general, margarine contains lower levels of saturated fats, but higher levels of unsaturated fats. Saturated fats have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes, whereas unsaturated fats have been shown to decrease blood sugar levels, the risk of heart disease, and the risk of type 2 diabetes. Additionally, margarine does not contain carbohydrates, which are found in fairly high levels in butter.