If your doctor has told you to eat less fat because your cholesterol is too high or less sodium because of your blood pressure, reading the food labels suddenly becomes very important. The American Heart Association has nutritional guidelines that identify whether a serving of a labeled food is "heart-healthy".

First pick up the item and take a look at the nutrition facts food label. (Be sure and notice the serving size!)

1. Is it low in fat? Less than or equal to 3 grams of fat.
2. Is it low in saturated fat? Less than or equal to 1 gram of saturated fat.
3. Is it low in cholesterol? Less than or equal to 20 milligrams of cholesterol.
4. Is the sodium less than or equal to 480 milli grams for individual foods? (Main dishes and meals like frozen entrees can have higher levels.)
5. Does it contain at least 10% of the daily value of: protein, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, iron or dietary fiber?
6. (Source: "Shop Smart with Heart" by American Heart Association) If your food item is too high in fat, sodium or cholesterol you may just want to cut down on the amount or eat a smaller serving size. Also, take a look at other products on the shelves; you may be able to find alternatives that are lower in fat or sodium but still taste great.
7. If you would like more information on heart healthy eating, contact the American Heart Association at 1-800-AHA-USA1 or on-line at: http://www.american heart.org/. You can also contact the Ingles Nutrition line at 888-382-3799 or email the Ingles dietitian, Leah McGrath, R.D., LDN for a free "Shop Smart with Heart" brochure.

This is general information only and should not replace advice or instructions given to you by your physician.

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