From The Straits Times    |

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#1 “Zero grams trans fats” or “trans fat free” doesn’t mean no fat
Trans fats increase bad cholesterol and your risk of heart disease. Products with this label may not have them, but they usually have fat, such as saturated fat (which can be as harmful as the former) and are high in calories, says Jaclyn Reutens, a dietitian at Aptima Nutrition & Sports Consultants. Common examples include cookies, potato chips, cream-fi lled bread rolls, frozen French fries and luncheon meat.

#2 “Pure olive oil” isn’t always pure
It’s usually a mix of olive oil and refined olive oil. Buy extra virgin olive oil, advises Pooja Vig, co-founder and CEO of The Nutrition Clinic. It’s 100 per cent pure.

#3 “All-natural” or “100 per cent natural” doesn’t mean “healthy”
This tag is too broad and doesn’t specify nutritional content, says Pooja. Something that doesn’t contain artificial colours, flavours or preservatives can still have loads of sugar, fat and calories, so be sure to check the nutrition facts on the packaging.

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#4 “No added sugar” doesn’t mean no sugar
Products like energy bars and cereal can have “hidden” sugar like raisins, dates, honey or rice syrup, says Pooja. These are high in sugar but aren’t listed under “added sugar”. As a general guide, the lower the sugar level is, the better. Check the nutrition facts on the packaging.

#5 “Omega eggs” aren’t always more nutritious than regular eggs
These eggs contain both omega-6 and omega-3 fats. But those sold locally usually have just a little more omega- 6 fats than regular eggs, Pooja says. Plus, they may not have more omega-3 fats, which is what we need more of, she adds. Oily fish like salmon is a good source of omega-3, which reduces inflammation and is important for cognitive function. Omega-6 is more easily found in plant-based oils and meat that many of us already consume.

Images: Getty Images, Illustrations: Alice Chua

This story was first published in Her World Magazine April 2012.

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