If you listen long enough to conversations about food, you’re bound to hear some contradictions. Many studies put ingredients like sugar, fat and sodium on a sliding scale between unhealthy and not-so-bad.
Here are a few sources for credible advice:
• Online resources.
Government-funded websites provide guidance to residents from registered dietitians. They feature recipes, resources for educators, menu plans, and articles on topics like childhood nutrition and smart shopping. Other websites and blogs can be a great place to obtain nutritional advice, but it’s a good idea to ensure the contributor is a credible source like a doctor or registered dietitian.
• Nutritional facts tables.
Read the nutrition facts tables on the packages you buy to learn more about the vitamins and minerals contained in the products. But nutrition facts tables aren’t limited to packaged goods alone. Many restaurant chains post nutrition facts tables online or will provide them upon request, and regulations in some parts of the country may require calories to be posted on food service menus.
• Registered dietitians.
Registered dietitians have accredited health professionals who are trained to use a range of medical and nutritional research to help you make food choices. Dietitians may be available through your public health service provider or private practice.
