reading the food label
reading the food labelTranscript (page 1 of 2)In the grocery store, you have many choices in front of you. The question is: how doyou make a healthy choice?One way is to use the nutrition facts food label located on all pre-packaged products.The food label includes information about serving size, calories, types of fat,carbohydrate and fiber.Let’s start by looking at the serving size. All information on the nutrition facts label isbased on the serving size. For example, 1 slice of wheat bread, 8 ounces of milk, onehalf-cup of cooked rice, or 1 tablespoon of olive oil, or 2 taco shells. Compare thisserving size to what you actually eat. For example, if you eat ½ serving, cut all thefigures in half to see how much of each nutrient you’re getting.Now let’s look at calories. It shows you how many calories are in that food. If you aretrying to limit how many calories you eat, this information can help.Now let’s look at carbohydrate. You need to eat carbohydrate everyday. The best carbsprovide fiber, so look at the number of grams of fiber per serving. Aim for 25 to 35grams of fiber every day.“I’ll go through periods of days when I have oatmeal every morning, before I shyaway and go on to something else. At least I know I’m getting in at least one shotof fiber, with that being the main substance of my meal.”Also, look at the total fat, saturated fat and trans fat per serving. Saturated fat andtrans fat are the kinds that increase your risk of heart disease, so everyone should limittheir intake.Information on cholesterol, sodium and protein are also included and may be helpfulin controlling your blood cholesterol, blood pressure, and weight.20% gradient meshKeep in mind that the percentages given are based on someone who needs 2,000calories a day. Talk to your healthcare provider about how many calories you shouldeat each day.healthclipshealthclipsNow let’s see how we can use labels to make healthier choices. Here we have wholemilk and 1% milk. Which one would you choose? Take a look at the food label for each.Comparing calories and total fat, we find that 1% milk is the healthier choice. healthclipshealthclips(cont. next page)4% gradient meshThis program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, orsuitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.hc_gn_10008_98_en_t00002.pdf © Milner-Fenwick, Inc.healthclips5% gradient meshreading the food labelTranscript (page 2 of 2)Another popular dairy product is ice cream. Compare regular ice cream to a real fruitsmoothie made with yogurt. The smoothie has less calories and fat, not to mentionthe benefit of real fruit.Familiarize yourself with the nutrition facts food label. It’s a source of valuableinformation that can help you choose the best foods for you.20% gradient meshhealthclipshealthclipshealthclipshealthclips4% gradient meshThis program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, orsuitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.hc_gn_10008_98_en_t00002.pdf © Milner-Fenwick, Inc.healthclips5% gradient mesh
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