There are plenty of foods that don’t come with a nutrition label. Here are some examples of these healthy foods.
Fruits and vegetables
When it comes to getting the most nutritional bang for your buck, fruits and vegetables are hard to beat. Most are naturally low in calories, sodium, and fat, and they’re packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
You don’t need a nutrition label to tell you that an apple or a carrot is good for you. But not all foods that come from nature are created equal. Here are five fruits and vegetables that have more sugar than you might expect:
1. Grapes
One cup of grapes has about 23 grams of sugar—that’s more than four times as much as a banana. And while grapes do have some health benefits (they’re a good source of antioxidants), they’re also high in fructose, which can cause weight gain and other health problems when consumed in large amounts.
2. Sweet potatoes
While sweet potatoes are often lauded as a superfood thanks to their high levels of vitamins A and C, they also contain around 20 grams of sugar per cup—about the same as a white potato. If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, stick to regular old potatoes instead.
3. Dried fruit
Dried fruit is a great way to get your daily dose of fruit, but it’s also very easy to overeat because it’s so concentrated. A quarter-cup serving of raisins has around 28 grams of sugar—that’s more than twice as much as the same amount of fresh grapes! When snacking on dried fruit, be sure to keep an eye on your portion size.
4. Fruit juice
Fruit juice is often marketed as a healthy alternative to sugary sodas, but the truth is that it can be just as bad for your health—if not worse. A 12-ounce glass of orange juice has about 22 grams of sugar—the equivalent of six oranges! And while 100% fruit juices do contain some nutrients, they’re also lacking in fiber (which helps keep you full) and can quickly add up in calories if you drink too much
Dairy products
Dairy products are a great source of nutrients like calcium, potassium, and vitamin D. But you don’t need a nutrition label to enjoy their benefits. Just pick up a carton of milk, a tub of yogurt, or a block of cheese and you’re good to go.
Eggs
Eggs are a powerhouse of nutrients and one of the few foods that don’t need a nutrition label. One large egg has only 75 calories but 7 grams of protein, 5 grams of fat, and 1.6 grams of saturated fat. Eggs are also a good source of choline, which is important for brain health, and they contain lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that are important for eye health.
Meat and poultry
You might be surprised to learn that many foods don’t need a nutrition label. This includes fresh meat and poultry. The USDA requires that all packaged foods have a nutrition label, but there are some exceptions. Foods that are sold in bulk, like fresh meat and poultry, don’t need a label. This is because the nutritional content of these foods can vary depending on how they’re prepared. For example, chicken breasts can be roasted, grilled, or fried. Each method of preparation will result in a different nutritional profile.
If you’re looking for leaner meats, opt for chicken or turkey breast without the skin. These cuts of meat are lower in fat and calories than their counterparts with skin. If you’re looking for something more indulgent, dark meat chicken or turkey can be a good option. Just keep in mind that these cuts of meat are higher in fat and calories than white meat.
When it comes to poultry, there are endless possibilities for recipes and preparations. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or frying chicken or turkey, you can be sure that you’re getting a nutritious meal.
Fish and seafood
You probably already know that fresh fruits and vegetables don’t come with a nutrition label. The same goes for fish and seafood. These foods are so healthy that they don’t need one!
Fish and seafood are packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids. They’re also low in calories and saturated fat. Eating fish and seafood regularly can help you lose weight, lower your cholesterol, and reduce your risk of heart disease.
So next time you’re at the grocery store, make sure to stock up on these healthy foods. Your body will thank you!
Nuts, seeds, and legumes
Nuts, seeds, and legumes are all great sources of nutrients like fiber, protein, and healthy fats. And they don’t need a nutrition label to tell you that! Just look for foods that are high in these nutrients and you’ll be getting a nutritious snack or meal.
Whole grains
When it comes to good nutrition, you don’t always need a nutrition label to guide you. There are plenty of foods that are healthy and nutritious without one. Whole grains are a great example.
Whole grains are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They’re also low in calories and fat. And they’re versatile enough to use in a variety of recipes.
So next time you’re at the grocery store, stock up on some whole grains. Your body will thank you for it!
