Scrutinizing The Nutritional Labels: A Beginner’s Guide
Understanding the nutritional value of what you’re about to consume isn’t as hard as it may seem. When you first glance at a food label, it might seem like a jumble of words and numbers that will make your head spin. But fear not! We’re here to break it down for you and turn you into a pro in no time.
What’s On The Label?
The most important thing to remember is that all the information on a food’s label is based on one serving. That’s right. All those calorie counts, sugar grams, and vitamins? That’s all based on the assumption that you’re only eating one serving of the food.
Calories And Ingredients
The calorie count is usually the first thing people look at on a label. The calorie content gives you a rough estimate of how much energy you’ll get from one serving of the food.
Also, the list of ingredients on the label is ordered by weight. The first ingredient listed is what the food contains the most of. This is particularly useful when you’re trying to cut down on things like sugar and unhealthy fats.
Fiber, Protein, And Vitamins
Fiber and protein are both nutrients that can help you feel full faster and stay full longer. Check out how much protein and fiber are in your foods and aim for higher amounts in these categories.
Vitamins are essential to your body’s healthy functioning. They help your body perform a variety of tasks, like bolstering your immune system and maintaining healthy bones and teeth.
Practice Makes Perfect
Like any new skill you learn, reading food labels will become easier with practice. The more you make it a habit to check the nutritional value of the food you eat, the more natural it will become.
Let’s Get Started
Ready to take control of your health and food options? At CrossFit Newmarket Central, we’re dedicated to helping you along your fitness journey, no matter where you’re starting from. One of our professional coaches would love to sit down with you for a complimentary No Sweat Intro, a consultation to establish your goals and develop a plan tailored just for you.
Ready to get started? Schedule your free No Sweat Intro here.
