Read Your Labels

To some, it may not matter at all, but in my home, I ensure quality products ALWAYS.
Here are a few key points to keep in mind when purchasing items at your local market.

• Low sodium, or no salt added
• All natural
• Locally grown
• Grass fed
• Gluten free
• No high fructose corn syrup
• No preservatives
• Organic
• Kosher
• No food dyes

First its important to understand the reasoning's why you are looking for certain items with those key words. Not every item has these options. I just like to familiarize myself with the labels of everything i purchase. If I don't know what a word is, I am afraid to put it in my body. I always have my phone on hand so I can do an instant google search for those "mystery items." Unfortunately in today's world, its hard to skip around ALL the bad things, but with places like Trader Joe's, Whole foods, Lifesource, and the specialty sections at your local market, it IS possible to find alternatives, and to make better purchases. I'm not saying its always cost effective. But, eventually you will learn to know what is MOST necessary for your diet control, and  even just specifically for the dish you are creating. Everything you consume does more then just taste good and fill you up. It has a life long term affect on your body. Weather it prevents heart disease, cancer, obesity, diabetes, or even amplifies the possibilities of getting these health scares. No I am not a health professional, but I have done some research, and all signs point to the obvious.
Good Luck!