Decoding Food Labels: What You Should Look For

A Complete Guide By The Best Multispeciality Hospital In Dammaiguda. Every time you buy packaged food, you make a health decision—often without realizing it. In today’s busy lifestyle, processed and packaged foods have become part of daily meals. But do you check the nutrition label before purchasing?

At Shri Adithya Hospital, Dammaiguda, we believe informed food choices are the first step toward a healthier life

Why Reading Food Labels Matters
Food labels provide essential details about ingredients, calories, sugar, salt, fats, and serving size. Understanding these labels helps people:

Make healthier grocery choices

Prevent lifestyle diseases like diabetes and obesity

Manage high blood pressure and heart disease

Improve overall family nutrition

Avoid allergens and harmful additives

How to Read Food Labels: Expert Nutrition Advice from Shri Adithya Hospital
1. Check the Serving Size First
Nutrition values are listed per serving, not per packet.

Look for:

Calories per serving

Total fat (low saturated fat preferred)

Carbohydrates & added sugars

Protein content

Dietary fiber

Tip from our hospital dietitian in Dammaiguda: Many snack packs contain 2–3 servings, increasing calorie intake unknowingly.

2. Read the Ingredients List Carefully
Ingredients appear in descending order by weight.

Avoid products where sugar, salt, maida, or refined oils are listed among the first three ingredients.

Short, simple ingredient lists usually indicate healthier packaged foods.

3. Understand Macronutrients Clearly
Fats: Choose foods low in saturated fat; avoid trans fat completely

Carbohydrates: Limit added sugars to protect blood sugar levels

Proteins: Look for plant or dairy protein sources like lentils, soy, or milk

Choose low-sugar, high-fiber packaged foods