19. Reading nutrition labels
Learning to read nutrition labels helped me spot hidden sugars and carbs in packaged foods that could sabotage my progress. I checked serving sizes, total carbohydrates, and ingredients lists for added sugars or refined grains. Some foods marketed as “healthy” were surprisingly high in sugars! The FDA’s nutrition label guide offered practical tips. Being label-savvy empowered me to make informed, healthier choices every time I shopped.