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Reading Food Labels People look at food labels for different reasons. But whatever the reason, many people would like to know how to use this information more effectively and easily. The following guide is intended to make it easier for you to use nutrition labels to make quick, informed food choices that contribute to a healthy diet. Food and Drug Administration: American Diabetes Association (also has a virtual grocery store): Net Carbs: What are they? "Net" carbs is a marketing tool that isn't totally correct, and will be found on products that have both sugar alcohols (manitol, sorbitol) and insoluble fibers in them. If a product has more than 5 grams of fiber in it, we can deduct all fiber grams from the total carbohydrate count. As for sugar alcohols, only half of the total carbs attributed to them may be subtracted; not the total as the label would have you believe. This is not an officially approved label. Where are you prone to seeing this? On "designer" food products like meal replacement bars and shakes. As always, test you blood sugars to know where you stand with any foods you eat. Ask your dietitian if you want to know more about this topic. |
