Food Label Food Facts

Food labels are a wealth of information and very easy to understand. Whether you want to eat better or just consume a little less food, the facts found on a food label offers a great place to start.

I recommend that my clients get acquainted with the important facts on all the foods that they eat. I am not suggesting making your shopping experience an obsessive experience; just becoming more informed as you strive to be more informed about your eating habits.

So what kind of information is on a food label? First look on the package where it says Nutrition Facts. You will see a short list of nutritional information that follows. First there is of course, the "all important" calorie count. But I am not a calorie guy and do not teach or recommend calorie counting.

I suggest instead that you try paying greater attention to portions. Portion control is a more successful way of learning how to adjust your food intake to achieve a healthier weight. You can find portions listed under Serving Size. 

If you need to reduce salt intake, you can easily find out how much is in the food you are eating. It is listed under the heading Sodium.

There is also information on the food label for protein, cholesterol, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins, minerals and sugar. If you would like to read more of my suggestions on reading food labels,
Click Here to go to my Sequoia Health newsletter entitled Food Label Sticker Shock.