Nutrition facts are important information that is included on food labels and provides information about the nutritional value of a food product. Nutrition facts include information about the serving size, calories, fat, cholesterol, sodium, carbohydrates, dietary fiber, sugars, protein, vitamins, and minerals. They can also provide information about other ingredients in the food such as additives, preservatives, and allergens.
Serving Size
The serving size tells you the amount of food that is considered one portion or one serving. This is important to know because all of the other information on the nutrition facts label is based on this serving size. It is important to be aware that the serving size listed on the label may not necessarily match the amount of food that you are actually consuming.
Calories
Calories are a measure of the amount of energy that is in a food. One calorie is equal to 4.2 joules of energy. Most foods are made up of a combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. The amount of calories that are in a food is the sum of the calories from all of these nutrients.
Fat
Fat is an essential nutrient that is found in many foods. It provides energy and helps the body to absorb some vitamins and minerals. The type of fat that is in a food is also important, as some types of fat are healthier than others.
Cholesterol
Cholesterol is an important nutrient that is found in animal-based foods. Cholesterol helps to make hormones and other substances in the body and is important for proper functioning of the body.
Sodium
Sodium is an important mineral that helps to regulate the body's fluids and helps to maintain healthy blood pressure. Too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body. They are found in a variety of foods including grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and nuts.
Dietary Fiber
Dietary fiber is an important nutrient that helps to keep the digestive system healthy. It is found in many plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, and grains.
Sugars
Sugars are simple carbohydrates that provide a quick source of energy for the body. They are found naturally in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products and can also be added to foods.
Protein
Protein is an important nutrient that helps to build and repair cells and tissues in the body. It is found in a variety of foods including meat, fish, eggs, nuts, and beans.
Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamins and minerals are important nutrients that help to keep the body healthy. They are found in a variety of foods including fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and grains.