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What should I look for in food labels?

Now that your baby is on the way, it's time to leave unhealthy habits behind and embrace a healthier lifestyle. Enough falling into the brand traps! Here are…

Kinedu Editors
Child development specialists
Jan 15, 2018 2 min read
What should I look for in food labels?

Now that your baby is on the way, it's time to leave unhealthy habits behind and embrace a healthier lifestyle. Enough falling into the brand traps! Here are some tips to read nutritional labels like a pro.

Where do we start? Turn that package around. Look for the "nutritional information" label. First, pay attention to the serving size and how many servings are in the package. Don't be fooled, remember to multiply everything by the number of servings!

Calories are important too, but don't go crazy counting them. Focus more on the nutrient content per serving, that's what matters. If something has 400 calories, better put it back on the shelf.

Fats and sugars? Yes, we all hate them, but some are good friends. Unsaturated fats from avocados and olive oil are your allies! When it comes to saturated fats from foods like dairy products and meats, consume them in moderation!

Watch out for sugar! You have a limit of 25 grams per day. Sometimes brands try to disguise it, but we assure you, you'll find it if you pay attention. Remember that fruits and dairy don't count in this game!

How about fiber and sodium? Absolutely! Look for foods rich in fiber, it keeps your body happy and your appetite under control. But be careful with sodium. You should have less than 1500 mg per day, so try not to overdo it.

And don't be fooled by those added vitamins and minerals. That doesn't turn a cookie into a salad, not even close!

Ingredients? The fewer, the healthier. If you see a long list, better run away from that product.

Remember, not everything is processed. Fruits, vegetables, and lean meat are your best allies! So, read those labels and fill your shopping cart wisely! Your baby will thank you, and you'll feel so much better.

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