๐Ÿ›’ Do you read nutrition labels? ๐Ÿ›’

Reading a nutrition label can feel overwhelming, but itโ€™s key for making choices that help manage blood sugar, support gut health, and keep you feeling your best. Hereโ€™s a quick guide on what to look for:

1๏ธโƒฃ Serving Size:
This is your foundation. All values on the label apply to the listed serving size. If you double the portion, youโ€™re doubling everythingโ€”calories, fibre, sodium, etc.

2๏ธโƒฃ Fibre:
Fibre feeds the good bacteria in your gut and helps regulate blood sugar.
Look for:

  • โ€œVery high source of fibreโ€: 6g or more per serving.

  • โ€œHigh source of fibreโ€: 4g or more per serving.

3๏ธโƒฃ Sugars & Added Sugars:
Excess sugar can cause blood sugar spikes and upset gut balance. Aim for:

  • โ€œLow in sugarโ€: 5g or less of total sugar per serving (includes natural and added sugars).

  • โ€œNo added sugarsโ€: The food contains no added sugars-based ingredients or ingredients containing sugars-based ingredients. 

4๏ธโƒฃ Ingredients List:
Shorter is better! Opt for foods with simple, whole-food ingredients like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid additives like high-fructose corn syrup and hydrogenated oils.

5๏ธโƒฃ Sodium:
Keep sodium low to support gut health and manage blood pressure. Choose foods more often with 5% Daily Value or lower.  

6๏ธโƒฃ Fats:
Healthy fats are essential for hormone and brain function.

  • Choose unsaturated fats (e.g., olive oil, nuts, seeds).

  • Limit saturated fats (e.g., butter, coconut oil, fatty meats).

  • Always avoid products with “partially hydrogenated oils,” which can contain trace trans fats.

Taking a few extra seconds to read labels can make a big difference! Start small by checking a few of these items next time you shop, and soon itโ€™ll become second nature.

 


Photo by Kampus Production

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