Author, Dietitian and Nutrition expert Melanie Jatsek says keep it simple.

To keep it quick and simple, there are five specific nutrients you should pay attention to when evaluating any food label: saturated fat, trans fat, sodium, fiber and sugar. Aim for the following numbers per serving:

Saturated fat-
1 gram or less

Trans Fat-
0 grams + no ‘partially hydrogenated oils’, ‘hydrogenated oils’ or ‘shortening’ in the ingredients list

Sodium-
Less than 140 mg

Fiber-
3 grams or more
Sugar-
10 grams or less

The bottom line: It’s all about balance! Not all foods will fit under these guidelines. For example, a serving of cheddar cheese has 6 grams of saturated fat, 170 mg of sodium and 0 grams of fiber, but it also offers a healthy dose of calcium! Shop wisely by steering your cart along the perimeter of the grocery store and you will automatically make better food choices.

For more healthy eating tips, visit: http://www.bustyourdiet.com