3 Major Elements You Should Watch Out in a Nutrition Facts Label

In your quest for a healthier eating lifestyle, being conscious and making sure you read the nutrition facts label of every product you are about to consume maybe insufficient.

In an article written by ANNEVA CAMPBELL HACKLEY (CHHC) on Shelter Island Reporter, it was noted that at least a consumer should be aware about these three major things:

1. Fat
2. Sodium and;
3. Sugar

Increased consumption of the above-mentioned ingredients can lead a person to serious health risks.

FAT: To break it down a little bit, fats, as what is generally known comprise 20 to 30 percent of any total of calories. While at that, a consumer must be watchful of any possible trans fats contents. Trans fats are hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated oils, and are known to increase blood cholesterol. Eventually, it may trigger heart ailments.

SODIUM: According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the healthy amount of sodium (Sodium Chloride for salt) is between:

1,500mg and 2,400mg per day or 2300mg = 1 teaspoon

SUGAR: The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends the following for a person's daily sugar intake:

Adult women = 20 grams (5 teaspoons)
Men = 36 grams (9 teaspoons)
Children = 12 grams (3 teaspoons)

One should also take note of the presence of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), as they can raise one's susceptibility of having a heart disease. This and artificial sweeteners are to be avoided, said AHA.

Those are just some of the basic things that you should put into a priority list while consuming commercial products, packed and bottled alike.

Take some time to read every nutrition facts label so that you will become a well-informed consumer.

Image: blog.foodnetwork.com

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