Food Label Nutrition Panel

The label does not discriminate between what we used to call good carbs and bad carbs. Today we use the term 'glycemic index' to measure how rapidly a carbohydrate converts to sugar.

The complex carbs present in such foods as brown (not white) rice are complex and break down slowly, releasing energy on a slower, steadier basis than the simple carbs in white rice or a candy bar which break down quickly, give a spurt of energy, then leave the body depleted and tired.

Processing foods removes the bran or the fiber which is the next topic on a label.

It is important to remember that the label gives you the amount per serving.

next - fiber


To Your Health
Carbohydrates Carbohydrates are a source of energy and heat. A small amount is stored in the liver for future use, and excess carbs are stored as fat. As a source of energy, the amount of carbohydratess used depends on activity. An active person will require more carbohydrates in a day than a sedentary person. The best sources of carbohydrates - fruits, vegetables, and whole grains - also provide vitamins and minerals, fiber, and a host of important phytonutrients. These are unrefined and are a wise choice of carbohydrates for the diet When there is a lack of carbohydrates, the liver releases its stores with the assist of insulin from the pancreas. This may over-work the pancreas.
The label does not discriminate between what we used to call good carbs and bad carbs. Today we use the term 'glycemic index' to measure how rapidly a carbohydrate converts to sugar. The complex carbs present in such foods as brown (not white) rice are complex and break down slowly, releasing energy on a slower, steadier basis than the simple carbs in white rice or a candy bar which break down quickly, give a spurt of energy, then leave the body depleted and tired. Processing foods removes the bran or the fiber which is the next topic on a label. It is important to remember that the label gives you the amount per serving. next - fiber
	Complete List of Label Elements: serving size and servings per container calories and calories from fat fats cholesterol sodium carbohydrates dietary fiber sugars protein vitamin content label footnote
This material is provided as a general guide, and is not intended as advice. Please contact a physician if you have dietary problems. The FDA may change or alter labels at their discrimination.

To Your Health