Misjudging Nutritional Expectations

Often, similar looking products vary widely in calories, sugar, fiber, fat and more. Compare some of your favorite foods and see how, as you shop, you can bring home healthier choices.

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By Jane Black

Washington Post Staff Writer
Thursday, May 22, 2008

Low Sugar Isn't The Obvious Choice

Lesson: If you're counting calories, low-sugar or low-fat options aren't always the best. Low-fat recipes might add more sugar for taste. And low-sugar baked goods can have as much fat as or more than regular items. Before making a selection, think carefully about what you want to minimize, such as sugar for diabetics or calories for dieters.

Starbucks Key Lime

Loaf: 390 calories and

4 grams of saturated

fat

vs.

Starbucks No Sugar

Banana Nut Coffee

Cake: 480 calories and

4 grams of saturated

fat

All Fast Food Isn't Created Equal

Lesson: Look-alike items can have real differences. A McDonald's Quarter Pounder with Cheese has 37 percent more sodium than Wendy's Single with Everything. If you're eating fast food regularly, do your homework. Most companies post nutritional information on their Web sites.

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