What is this food?
Cookies and polvoron are sweet, crumbly treats made mostly from sugar and flour, with added fats (often from milk/shortening). They’re usually eaten as a snack or dessert.
Why it matters to health
They can fit into your day, but they’re energy-dense, so portion size matters. Per 100 g, they provide about 478 kcal with 19.2 g total fat (including 5.9 g saturated fat) and 71 g carbohydrates (with 21.5 g sugar). They also have 351 mg sodium and only 1.3 g fiber, so they may not keep you full for long compared to meals. Choosing them occasionally and in smaller portions helps balance your daily intake while still enjoying treats.
Healthier tips
- Keep it to a small serving (for example, 1–2 pieces or a small handful) and pair it with a filling snack like fruit or yogurt to help balance your meal pattern.
- Try to enjoy cookies/polvoron after a full meal (not on an empty stomach) so you’re less likely to overeat.
- Balance the rest of the day: at your 3 full meals, prioritize rice/whole grains + protein (fish, chicken, eggs, tofu) + vegetables.
- If you’re having it with coffee or tea, avoid adding extra sugar.
- Watch frequency: aim for treats a few times a week, not every day.
Common Filipino dishes
Polvoron, Butter cookies, Shortbread cookies, Biscotti, Sesame cookies