Understanding Food Labels and Nutritional Facts

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What information is included on a food label?

A food label includes serving size, calories, nutrient amounts, and ingredient list.

Why is the serving size important on a food label?

The serving size helps you understand how much of each nutrient you are consuming per serving.

What does % Daily Value on a nutrition label indicate?

It indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet, based on the recommended daily intake.

How can you determine if a food is high in a specific nutrient using the % Daily Value?

If the % Daily Value is 20% or higher, the food is high in that nutrient.

What should you look for in the ingredient list?

Look for whole foods listed first, fewer ingredients, and ingredients you can recognize and pronounce.

Why should you pay attention to the amount of saturated and trans fats on labels?

Both are linked to higher risk of heart disease, and it's important to limit their intake.

What is the significance of the ‘total sugars’ section on a food label?

It shows the amount of sugar, both natural and added, per serving.

What nutrient helps with muscle function and maintaining normal blood pressure?

Potassium helps with muscle function and maintaining normal blood pressure.

Why is fiber listed separately on a food label?

Fiber is important for digestion, and intake should be monitored as part of a healthy diet.

What does 'low sodium' mean on a food label?

'Low sodium' means the food contains 140 mg of sodium or less per serving.

What is a common guideline for daily sodium intake?

It is generally recommended to consume less than 2,300 mg of sodium per day.

Which term indicates that a food product has undergone little processing?

‘Unprocessed’ or ‘minimally processed’ indicate little processing.

What can be an indication of a high calorie food?

A food with high calories per serving, especially if not providing many nutrients, can be high calorie.

Why is it beneficial to understand food labels?

Understanding food labels enables you to make informed choices for better health and nutrition.

What is a nutrient fact panel?

It is a section on the food label that provides detailed information on the nutritional content of the food.