Have you ever entered the grocery store and feel absolutely shocked? With endless options all around, it can be quite heavy to decide what to buy and what to do. And if you are a health eccentric, you are even more conscious of what you add to your car. While scanning the corridors, it is common to spot the products with ‘sugar-free, “low-fat, etc., as they say, the first impression is final, so we often believe that whatever is marketed for us. But is it really true, or are we just falling into a secret trap? Let’s find out from the nutritionist Amit Gadre, who recently revealed how to decode the food label like a supporter to make a healthy option.
Also read: 9 hidden truths of food label: what you should know
Photo Credit: ISTOCK
Healthy VS here Unhealthy foods using food labels:
1. Do not fall for nutrition claims
Nowadays, the market is full of products claiming to be ‘Chinese free’, ‘multi-grain’, or ‘low-fat’. In most cases, we buy them without another idea. However, Amita does not fall for this trap! She always recommends cross-checking the nutritional panel on the product for hidden sugars or calories. By doing this, you will have a better understanding of what you are really consuming.
2. Check the content list
When shopping for food or beverages, be sure to keep a look through the material list. If the first three to five materials include sophisticated dough, pair sugars, or hydrogenated oil, the product may not be the best for your health. The first some elements are usually present in the highest concentration. Instead, choose the option of products that lie on the top the whole grains and natural ingredients.
3. See serving size
Another thing you should always do is to check the serving size mentioned on the package. This is important because it helps you analyze how many calories you will actually consume in a serving. Amita suggests that being alert with small servings, as eating more than one can be added quickly. Once you start following this practice, you will see that you are no longer consuming additional calories.
4. Monitor couple sugars, sodium and fat
Finally, do not forget to monitor sugars, sodium and fat added to the package. According to Gadre, the added sugar in a product should not exceed 10 grams. For sodium, she suggests choosing products less than 120 mg per serving. When it comes to fat, it advises to avoid trans fat and limit saturated fat.
Also read: Food label should also explain the necessary exercise to burn calories: Study
Watch the full video below:
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Now when you know how to read the food label correctly, we hope that you can make an informed option for yourself. Stay fit and healthy!