Food Labels

The information on food labels can be very overwhelming, but it so important to read the information on your food products and more importantly UNDERSTAND the information given. Most people tend to pick up a food product without any idea what is actually in it.

So what is a Food Label?

It’s the value of a food item including serving size, calories, grams of fat and a list of nutrients and ingredients. The label is always on the back or side of a food product, it offers the simplest way to choose GOOD food items with regards to consuming protein, less saturated fat, watching your salt (Sodium) intake, all the added sugars, how much energy in kilojoules (kJ) and kilocalories (kcal) are in the product and fiber (Carbohydrates). With regards to sugars, food products will have a list of natural sugars as well as those added sugars which are generally the BAD sugars. Know what fats you are consuming especially SATURATED FATS, always looking at limiting the intake of BAD FATS.

Portion size or what constitutes a serving size is so important to understand, as we generally tend to eat too much. All nutritional information is provided per 100 grams so look at the size of your product and make sure you are not consuming too much. Know how many calories you are meant to consume daily for your body and make sure you read the food label to make sure you are not eating too much.

I challenge you all to take the time when you go to the shops, slow down and read the FOOD LABEL, this will make a huge difference in what you buy and the impact it has on your body.

I hope this has given you all a slightly better insight into reading a food label and understanding why it is so important to do. Calories really do count, whether you are looking to drop fat or increase muscle, the correct mix is vital to fuel your body sufficiently.