Manufacturers will sometimes print ANYTHING on their labels to entice the consumer. Sometimes the information is true, other times… not so much. We all want to do the best we can for ourselves and our families, but who can you trust?
–GLUTEN FREE: These products are great if you have celiac disease or a gluten intolerance. They are not healthier, just necessary. However, if you take something out, you must put something back in. So they add more sugar or fat to make it palatable. They are usually made with rice flour which comes with concerns as well. So don’t load up on these products if they are not medically necessary.
–NON-GMO: Most states do not require products to identify if they have ingredients that have been genetically modified. Especially foods with corn or soy which are most commonly modified. However, if you see this label its pretty reliable. Also, if its organic it can’t be a GMO product.
–NO TRANS FATS: With these labels, there are still dangers so beware. If a product has <0.5% of a trans fat, it’s labeled 0! Cooking oils (palm or coconut) have trans fats and can affect your heart health. So stick to EVOO or canola to be safe.
–HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP: So what’s in a name? Sugar is sugar is sugar !!! In this case, the name is just another form of ADDED sugar. Either way, it’s not good and we already know that. Try to stick to natural sugars in fruits and veggies. And don’t be fooled into thinking things like ” brown sugar”, “agave” or “honey” are anything but.. added sugar.
It’s important to read labels and know what you are eating, but never believe EVERYTHING you read.
LOVE WHAT YOU EAT