Reading food labels is a very important part of a proper diet.  The labels show you the amount of carbohydrates, protein, calories , sodium (salt), fat and saturated fat that particular food contains.

Most of the information on the nutrition facts label is for 1 serving, (always check if it is for more).  Too much sodium can raise your blood pressure, therefore, choose foods with 400 mgs of sodium per serving.  If you eat frozen entrees, they should be 800 mg per serving.

Saturated fat can raise your cholesterol level and lead to heart disease.  Besides choosing foods low in sodium, choose foods with the less amount of saturated fat.

Understanding the Label

Low-fat:	No more than 3 grams (g) of fat/serving (for single food), or no more than 30% of calories from fat.
Fat-free:	Less than 3 grams of fat per serving.
Low in saturated fat:	1 gram or less per serving, and not more than 15% of calories from saturated fat.
Low cholesterol	20 mg or less per serving, and 2 grams or less of saturated fat per serving.
Low sodium	140 mg or less per serving
Sodium-free/Salt-free	Less than 5 mg per serving.
Reduced or less	At least 25% lower in that nutrient than regular, nonreduced version.
Low Calories	40 calories or less per serving.
Calorie-free	Less than 5 calories per serving.
Light, Lite	1/3 fewer calories or 50%  less fat per serving than the food it's compared to.
Light in sodium	Half the usual sodium or less.
Sugar-free	Less than 5 grams of sugar per serving.
Dietetic	This term has no specific meaning.  Read the label for content information.
High Fiber	5 grams or more per serving.