Read up and get smart about what you eat

Ever wondered how many calories that pack of chips contains? Or how much sugar you consume on a daily basis by drinking three tall Starbucks Frappuccinos?

The best way to start a diet is to be informed about what you eat, what’s in it, and how you can control your food intake in order to maximize calorie burning and minimize calorie consumption. The first thing you need to do is to learn how to scrutinize and appreciate the nutrition facts attached to every food packaging you buy.

Most people take the nutrition facts label for granted, believing instead in the declarations of low-fat, low-sugar content found prominently on the front of the package.  While these are not necessarily false, it always helps to see for yourself just how much of the good and the bad things are found in the food that you eat.

Food labels are actually pretty easy to decipher nowadays, thanks to the government regulations requiring food manufacturers to let consumers know exactly what they are eating. Now you can find out how much macronutrients (fat, carbohydrates, protein and fiber), vitamins and minerals are in every serving of your favourite food item.

A typical food label would include the following:

  1. Serving size
  2. Servings per container
  3. Calories
  4. Calories from fat
  5. Nutrients
  6. Percent daily values

A smart eater is one who determines first whether or not what he’s buying at the grocery is actually good for him. When deciding which product is best for you, check out the nutrient content and see if it fits your needs.

Some food items out there are nothing but empty calories that fill up your stomach while leaving your body craving for proper nutrition. A healthy meal or food item is one that is rich in vitamins, fiber and minerals and low in sugar, cholesterol, sodium and fats.