Nae’s Nutrition

Don’t be fooled by false claims in advertisements and marketing as this is poorly regulated by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Read the nutrition labels required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) instead. Not only does this keep us aware of what we are consuming but promotes better food choices.

1. Less is more 

Whole Foods like fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean protein are healthier than packaged and processed items. Choose foods with a shorter list of ingredients because when it comes to ingredients— less is more. 

2. The Ingredient List

An ingredient list will name each ingredient in descending order of amount, with the first ingredient being the largest. If water is the first ingredient, then water is the most prominent ingredient. In other words, if the first ingredient listed is a word you can’t even pronounce, it’s likely a chemical. Look for wholesome ingredients (foods that are good for your body) as the first ingredient listed.

3. “Added” Sugars

Always check the food label to see how much “added” sugar is in a food item. Sugars not found naturally in Whole Foods, like fruit or milk should be limited to less than 10% of your daily calorie intake. In layman’s terms, limit foods that contain added sugars as much as possible.

4. Saturated and Trans Fats Content

Saturated and trans fats = Bad cholesterol

Saturated fats should be limited to less than 10% of your daily calorie intake. For a 2,000-calorie diet, that is 200 calories or 22 grams (g) of saturated fats a day.

Trans fats should be avoided.

5. Sodium Content

Sodium intake is recommended in quantities less than 2,300 milligrams per day. This is the Tolerable Upper Intake Level set by the National Academy of Medicine for people ages 14 and older. Avoid foods high in sodium.