Reading labels can be confusing! Sometimes it’s difficult to understand what the label is telling us and what is important to look at. You don’t have to look at every little thing on a label, but there are a few things that are critical to take note of.
1. Look at the serving size and how many servings are in the package
Have you ever looked at a label’s calorie count and thought it wasn’t so bad, only to find out that there were 2.5 servings in the package? That’s why it’s important for you to notice the serving size and how many servings are in the package.
2. Fat – especially saturated and transfats
Transfats should be a big fat zero. You don’t want to consume any of that nasty stuff. Saturated fats can be okay depending on what you’re purchasing. Animal products are going to be higher in saturated fats, but it’s when you start purchasing products like chips, cookies and other processed foods that saturated fats should be kept very low. (hint: you shouldn’t purchase those things except for special occasions!)
3. Sodium
In Western society, we eat so many salty foods, so we get a quite lot of sodium! Choosing foods with low or no sodium is a healthier choice. That way, you can add a little high quality pink or sea salt at home.
4. Dietary fiber
The higher the number the better ?
5. Sugar
Look for very low or zero.
You can make your life very easy in regards to reading labels… eat whole foods ?
- produce
- raw nuts and seeds you can soak and dry
- organic, grass fed meats
- free range eggs
- organic cheese
- whole grain breads (or better yet make your own)
- fermented foods
We’ll be working on getting a Nutrition 101 course out in 2021 where we will get deeper into nutrition and how to eat optimally for your health… stay tuned!
