USING FOOD LABELS FOR A SLIM WAISTLINE

Food labels mentioned on packaged food you buy can be very confusing for an untrained eye, which is why so many don’t even bother to read the nutritional information and rely on the claims on the label.

- 

Ramona D. Lehadus Nutritionist, Health & Wellness Expert underlines the fact that “Being aware of the ingredients in your food, gives you control over your health.” Do not believe the claims on the front of the label

DECODING NUTRITIONAL LABEL FOR WEIGHT LOSS:

Do not believe the claims on the front of the label

(healthy, heart-healthy, low fat) as these are not regulated, hence not verified. For e.g. A “sodium-free” mention on the packet means that the food contains less than 5 mg of sodium. Similarly, “Low fat” means that the food contains less than 3 grams of fat in the amount of food packed.

Read the list of ingredients:

The first ingredient represents 70%+ of the total quantity of the item; if there are more than 5 ingredients, it is an ultra-processed item and you better avoid it; if you cannot pronounce any of the ingredients on the list, do not eat it. Avoid sugar alternatives (i.e., aspartame), butter/fat alternatives (vegetable oils, margarine, palm oil). – if there are synthetic colours and flavours (usually Es) do not eat them.

Health Coach & founder Two Hearts Nutrition, Carrie Bonfitto adds in that “Manufacturers love to hide sugar in their foods to increase the pleasure you gain from eating their product. It is a flavor enhancer, preservative, and packs on the pounds! Even so-called healthy foods like yogurt, almond milk, dried fruit, granola, and gluten-free products are loaded with sugars. And manufacturers use different names to better hide sugar on the label.”