SEE WHY FOOD LABELS ARE USEFUL TO YOU!

Photo Credit: Food Navigator

In this part of the world (Africa), we almost do not bother checking that part that says "nutritional facts" on our cans and boxes; I guess most of the times we just could not wait to consume the contents in these boxes and cans. The truth is, these information are important (even if you feel you've been taking the products for years). Checking these facts right before you buy or consume might be your "get out of jail free" from that health/nutritional disorder you are currently faced with.

Nutritional facts simply provides vital information about the nutrition of a certain food product and  are usually contained on labels on food products.  This information usually includes serving size, a number of servings in the package, calories per serving, and the number of various nutrients contained in the product. Anyone who is able to understand the information contained on a food label can easily stick to a nutritious diet, making it easy for them to eat the best meal per time.

While nutrition facts labels can be helpful, not everyone understands the information included or the importance of it; this is where the service of a nutritionist/dietitan is required ( Now, you need DexaDiet). Making healthy food decisions is paramount to the day-to-day total well-being of people.

A 2010 study revealed that food labels actually affect the food choices of  nutrition-conscious people. That is, when these people are trying to make a decision on food products to pick from, they usually take a look at the food labels. This is the best way to find out and even compare the options of foods that are more nutritious and which are not. These labels will inform you about which food products have a low amount of calories, fat, saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, sodium, and sugar; It's best that people avoid this type of nutrients because of their harmful effects on the human body. Checking the ingredients stated on the food labels will inform you of the best food products to avoid. It's best that you stick to food products with easily identifiable food products or those that you can find in your kitchen. Label with complex or chemical names is usually an indication of a high concentration of additives!

Going through a food label can be the best way to stick to a nutrition plan. They would provide you with the best tips on what to eat when you are trying to lose weight or gain it. In a study published in the "Journal of the American Dietetic Association" in April 2000, people advised by their doctors to lose weight for health reasons who used nutrition labels were found to consume fewer calories, more fiber and less saturated fat, sugar and carbohydrates than the people who didn't use nutrition labels. Nutritionists and Dietitians provide education to their patients on how to use these labels when making dietary recommendations.

Photo Credit: The Codex Alimentarius Commission

Sometimes it only takes that "15 seconds" to just stare at those boxes and cans (labels), Your entire WELL-BEING might just depend on it.

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Happy New Month!!!