by Eva Perry

Created on: September 17, 2008   Last Updated: March 28, 2010

Did you know a food label can state there is 0 grams trans fat on that particular food item, but under the ingredients still list hydrogenated, or partially hydrogenated oils? This is true, since the rule by the FDA states that any amount  0.5 grams or less per serving, can be labeled as 0 grams trans fat. 

The problem with this fact, is that now there can still be food items containing some trans fat in them, and the more servings you eat of that product the higher the trans fat content for your body. .

Let's take a look at other factors, that are important for a person to consider when examining  food contents more closely, before you buy or eat certain food items. 

   • Trans fat is the fat you don't want to have in your body. Extensive research has shown that trans fat raises the bad cholesterol, or LDL levels in your blood, increasing your risk for heart disease. The food products that contain trans fat are margarine, cookies, crackers, snack foods, and some frozen foods. Remember, to check your food products closely to see exactly what is contained in the food contents

   • A good rule to remember when checking food contents is that less is better. What this means is that the more ingredients that are added to the food contents, the less healthy for you they seem to be. Why is this true? Too many added ingredients like, glucose, high fructose corn syrup, dextrose, invert sugar, malt syrup, and corn sweetener, are all added sugars that should not be part of a healthy diet. This is especially true for anyone already diagnosed with high sugar levels or living with a diabetic condition. Other added ingredients that offer no nutritional value would be the artificial colors, preservatives such as BHA or BHT. Although these preservatives are added to protect some foods from becoming rancid, it's best to find natural alternatives or fresh food supplies.

   • Checking food contents is also important to avoid food products that are high in calories. Studies have shown that a high caloric intake may increase your fat and cholesterol levels, therefore increasing your risk for certain diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease.

   • Healthy food contents that a person should be checking for are food sources rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals, proteins, and whole grains. These added ingredients are important to incorporate into your daily diet, to maintain a healthy body.

   • One ingredient to check for in many of your food products is salt. Food products containing high sodium are obviously not good for your body since higher levels have been associated with an increase in blood pressure. Foods to be aware of that might be loaded with sodium are canned soups, macaroni and cheese products, and other prepared foods such as lunchmeat and frozen foods.

Finally, checking out the food contents on products you use in your daily diet is a wise decision to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

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