Reading Food Labels

Before you snack on that “Low Fat” “All Natural” yogurt, reach for the whole grain bread or a bottle of Vitamin Water, you might want to do a little label reading.

Many foods labeled as fat-free, cholesterol-free or all-natural that we think are healthy are no better, and in some cases even worse than typical processed foods.

Reading labels is important whenever you’re trying to make healthy food choices. BUT if you’re only reading the “healthy” buzzword on the front of the package, you could still get into trouble:-(

How many of us would think to check the label on our breakfast cereal? Some cereals for example, contain an endless list of artificial ingredients and words you can’t even pronounce, and as much as 18 grams of sugar per serving!!

Equally surprising is how much fat, sugar, and sodium may be lurking in your turkey meal. Some ground turkey can have a higher percentage of fat than extra-lean ground beef, while many raw turkey breasts are injected with “flavor enhancers,” which loads them with sugar and salt!

8 Foods That Can Fool You   

• Packaged cereals. Check for excess sugar and sodium, and a lack of fiber.

• Multigrain or seven-grain products. Unless the label says “100% wholegrain,” and listed first or second you’re not getting full benefits.

• Deli foods. Even “fresh” turkey or chicken breast can be loaded with sodium, while salads are frequently made with high-fat mayonnaise and other unhealthy oils.

• High-energy bars and drinks. In many instances, the “high energy” claims come from the high level of calories — most from sugar and fat.
• Low-fat or no-fat dairy products that replace fat with fillers. Fillers can jack up carbohydrate loads and increase sugar content, which can promote weight gain and uncontrolled blood sugar metabolism .
• Granola bars or cereal. Many contain saturated fats (from ingredients like coconut), sodium as a preservative, and lots of sugar.
• Trail mix. Containing things like chocolate chips and sugared fruit, most types weigh in at whopping 190 calories for a couple of ounces, and won’t keep you full for very long.
• “Trans fat-free” cookies, crackers, snack chips, and baked goods. Check portion sizes and look for hydrogenated oils on the ingredient panel.

Tired of Dieting?

We Can Help You If:

•You want to Lose weight and keep it OFF

•You have belly fat that you can’t get rid off

•You have trouble sleeping

•You often experience mood swings

•You often feel bloated or constipated

•You have constant craving for sweets and carbs

•You consistently experience energy dips

 Call 727-735-4473 to Scheduled Your Individual Nutrition Consultation & Get $20 OFF!