How to Read Food Labels for Heart Health: A Guide by BS Budwal, Best Dietician in Chandigarh Maintaining a healthy heart is very essential in today’s stressful environment. As everybody is busy in chasing success wealth and fame, one organ which is severely affected is “heart” .Today heart problem which was earlier detected only in older people, are affecting young adults and teenagers also. Hence It is the perfect time to talk about heart-healthy solutions. BS Budwal, the best dietician in Chandigarh, is available to help you with this process and make decisions that will benefit your heart health. The Significance of Food Labelling for Heart Health Reading food labels is a healthy skill to have. Important details regarding the nutritional content of packaged foods are provided by food labels. It might be quite beneficial to pay attention to specific nutrients and ingredients when regulating heart health. Here’s how to check food labels effectively in diet: 1. Check the Serving Size A serving, also known as serving size, refers to the quantity of food indicated on a product’s Nutrition Facts label or food label. This indicates the portion size for which the nutritional information is provided. It’s essential to match this serving size with your actual portion to get accurate nutrient intake. 2. Identify Key Nutrients Focus on specific nutrients that impact heart health: 1. Sodium (Salt): High sodium intake is linked to high blood pressure. Always prefer foods labelled as “low-sodium” or “no added salt.” 2. Saturated Fat and Trans Fat: These fats can raise cholesterol levels. Opt for foods with lower saturated and trans fat content. 3. Total Fat: Choose foods with healthier fats like unsaturated fats (e.g., olive oil, nuts) over saturated fats (e.g., butter, palm oil). 4. Cholesterol: Limit foods high in cholesterol, as it can contribute to heart disease. 3. Look for Heart-Healthy Ingredients Seek out foods that contain heart-healthy ingredients: Whole Grains: Foods with whole grains are rich in fiber, which is beneficial for heart health. Fruits and Vegetables: Look for products that include fruits and vegetables, which are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. 4. Avoid Hidden Sugars Watch out for hidden sugars, listed under various names like corn syrup, fructose, and sucrose. Excessive sugar intake can contribute to heart disease and weight gain. 5. Use % Daily Value The % Daily Value (%DV) helps you understand how much of a specific nutrient one serving provides based on a 2,000-calorie daily diet. Aim for foods with lower %DV of sodium, saturated fat, and cholesterol. 6. Limit Processed Foods Convenience foods frequently have elevated levels of sodium, unhealthy fats, and additional sugars. Try to eliminate these processed foods, and replace them with healthy alternatives. Conclusion Reading food labels for heart health is a skill that can empower you to make healthier choices. As the best dietician in Chandigarh, BS Budwal encourages you to prioritize whole, nutrient-dense foods and use food labels as a tool to support your heart health goals. For personalized guidance on crafting a heart-healthy diet plan, schedule a consultation with BS Budwal today. Together, we can take proactive steps towards improving your heart health through smart nutrition choices. Moreover BS Budwal always believe in homemade food, also he always prefer home based diet over other costly diets. Start your journey towards a healthier heart today!