Decode Your Food: A Quick Guide to Reading Labels Like a Pro

1. Read the Ingredients List, Not Just Nutrition Facts

- Ingredients are listed in order by weight - first = most.

- Look for short lists with real, whole-food ingredients.

- If you can't pronounce it, question it.

2. Beware of These Red Flags

Artificial Preservatives:

- BHT, BHA, TBHQ, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate

Seed Oils (Pro-Inflammatory):

- Canola, soybean, sunflower, safflower, corn oil

Artificial Sweeteners:

- Aspartame, sucralose, acesulfame potassium

Artificial Colors:

- Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1

'Natural Flavors':

- May contain undisclosed additives and solvents

MSG & Hidden Sources:

- Monosodium glutamate, yeast extract, hydrolyzed proteins

3. Sugar by Many Names (and in Many Places)

Look for hidden sugars like:

- Cane juice, dextrose, maltodextrin, glucose, fructose, rice syrup, agave

Tip: Multiple types = more sugar than it appears!

4. Don't Fall for the Buzzwords

"Gluten-free" != healthy

"Organic" != low sugar

"Non-GMO" != clean

Always double-check the ingredients!

5. Check the Serving Size Trick

- Are the numbers based on a tiny, unrealistic portion?

- Multiply if you're eating more than 1 serving!

BONUS TIPS

- Choose products with ingredients you recognize.

- The fewer ingredients, the better.

- Avoid anything with a 'proprietary blend' if they don't tell you what's in it.

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