UNDERSTANDING FOOD LABELS

Understanding Food Labels: What You Need to Know

Fod labels can feel overwhelming, but learning to read them helps you make healthier choices. The label provides key information about what's inside the package, such as calories, nutrients, and ingredients. So let's see things to look out for on food labels; 1. Serving Size: Check this first! The numbers on the label (like calories) are usually based on a specific serving size, not the whole package. If you eat more than the serving size, you're getting more calories and nutrients. 2. Calories: This tells you how much energy the food provides. For a snack, aim for around 150–200 calories, and for meals, about 400–700 calories, depending on your needs at the moment actually. 3. Nutrients to Limit: Look at saturated fat, added sugars, and sodium (salt). Eating too much of these can lead to health issues like high blood pressure or heart disease, so, be conscious about this before eating o 4. Nutrients to Get More Of: Focus on fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals like calcium and iron. These help keep your body strong and healthy. 5. Ingredients List: The first few items on the list are the main ingredients. Watch out for added sugars or chemicals with long names; these often mean the food is heavily processed. By understanding food labels, you can pick options that fit your health goals while avoiding hidden unhealthy ingredients. Simple swaps, like choosing high-fiber cereals or low-sodium snacks, can make a big difference! I'm sure you now know what to do about food labels for a healthy living, right?