If you are like most people then you probably glance at the Nutrition Facts label on foods once in a while. Maybe you check for the number of calories or fat grams that an item contains, or maybe you are watching something specific - like your sodium intake. Whatever the case, it has been proven that those who pay attention to the Nutrition Facts label end up eating healthier.

It is true that our body requires fats to stay healthy and fit. Without fats, vitamin A, D, E and K cannot be carried and utilized by the body for its specific functions. Without fats, the cell membrane in your body cannot function normally. Without fats, the nerve fiber contain in the cell membranes of the brain will become retarded in its function to carry messages. A deficiency of fats will cause production of certain hormones such as prostaglandins to be impaired resulting in body malfunction. In addition, fats are necessary for the insulation and cushioning of our various vital organs such as kidneys and the heart to protect them from injury and hold them onto their rightful place. Fats are therefore just as essential for the bodily functions as other nutrients like protein, carbohydrates and fiber. Taking fats in a meal helps to slow down absorption of food so that we can stay full longer.

Diet sweeteners such as NutraSweet®, Sweetmate®, Canderal®, Equal®, or the generic, aspartame®, are composed of 90% phenylalanine and aspartic acid. Aspartame is also10% methanol (or wood alcohol) by weight, and breaks down further in heat and in the body into formaldehyde, next into formic acid and is then eliminated from the body in the form of carbon dioxide and water.

Healthy eating, whether as a child or senior citizen is a vital part of a healthy and active lifestyle. Your nutritional needs are pretty much the same at 40, 50, 60 and beyond as they were when you were younger--with some minor variations. As we grow older, our bodies becomes less forgiving, and we will have to make more of an effort to eat well and stay fit.