Science Common Sense
449 - How do we read food labels and understand nutrition?
Reading food labels is like solving a puzzle. Here's a simple way to do it:
- Check the top: Look at the front of the label for 'Nutrition Facts' or 'Nutrition Information'. This section will give you the most important info.
- Serving size: See how much is in one serving (e.g., 1 cup or 2 slices). This will help you know how much you're eating.
- Calories: Check how many calories are in each serving. You want to know if it's too many or just right.
- Macros: Look at the amounts of protein, fat, and carbs (carbohydrates). Protein is good for muscles, fat for energy, and carbs for energy too.
- Percent Daily Value: This is like a report card for the food. If it's high (close to 100%), the food is good for you. If it's low, it might not be as great.
- Added sugars, salt, and bad fats: Try to avoid these as much as you can.
Some words to look out for on food labels: - 'Low' or 'Reduced' (good for you) - 'High' or 'Extra' (not as great) - 'Organic' (made without chemicals) - 'Whole Grain' (good for fiber)
Remember, it's like solving a puzzle. Break it down, piece by piece, and you'll become a super reader of food labels!