Reading Nutrition Facts & Labels
The Nutrition Facts Label lists the amount of calories per serving and the amount of key nutrients contained in packaged foods.
Serving Size.
The diabetes meal planning serving sizes may differ from the serving sizes used on food labels. Consult the Exchange Lists or your specific meal plan for the correct serving size.
Calories.
The amount of total calories and calories from fat in a serving are listed here. To reduce fat, choose foods with a big difference between Calories and Calories from Fat, as listed on the label.
Total Fat.
Limit the intake of total fat, especially saturated fat that can increase the risk of heart disease by raising blood cholesterol levels.
Cholesterol.
Choose a diet low in cholesterol to avoid clogged arteries and heart disease, a greater risk in people with diabetes.
Carbohydrate.
People with diabetes must pay attention to carbohydrate intake. The kinds of carbohydrates are less important than the total amount of carbohydrates. This carbohydrate labeling is very useful if you plan your meals using a carbohydrate-counting system.
