Korean Food Lables

It constantly amazes me how Koreans remain so thin despite the large amounts of foods they eat. Granted, the Koreans are widely known for their many side dishes and many are chock full of healthy low-fat vegetables. Their meats are usually fried, sopped in oil and  indulge in white rice three times a day. Yet- they still they remain as skinny as ever.  From what I've seen over the course of the past few months is that they do eat small portions of meat and use a lot of tofu in their menus. They also of course,  eat fish and seafood at almost every meal.  Below is  a typical lunch served for 6 people.  The tables are usually filled to the rim with plates of side dishes.

Personally, I think they were just blessed with super genes.  I, on the other hand need to work at watching what goes into my mouth and have to exercise to keep my metabolism kicking. When I first arrived in Korea, I definitely lost a few pounds, as I struggled to get accustomed to the new cuisine.  One of the challenges I've had is that I do not eat any fish or seafood, which makes up primarily 90% of a Korean diet. I also have to tell you that  I've tried the Kimchi- but can report that I am not a fan.

As I searched the markets and super stores, which I quickly discovered sold some "North American" staples (at a very high price of course). With my new found treasures,  I relied mostly on the familiar products to enjoy cooking, the weight I had initially lost came back. To make matters worse, the public schools here in Korea provide a full course meal for lunch (served from prison trays). Given the limitations of my diet- I was mostly eating a larger- than -I'd- like- to portion of white rice everyday.

Last month, I put a stop to my Korean lunch buffets, and opted to bring my own lunch. I was healthier and at least enjoying the food I was preparing. I've definitely noticed a difference- since returning to my healthy  lunches.

I've never been a calorie counter and have always enjoyed a good meal- but I'm committed to paying even more attention (they do say your metabolism goes down hill after you've turned thirty).  I may not be a counter, but I always read the nutrition labels back home. This of course has proved to be disastrous given the labels are written in Hangul. So, for anyone out there who is trying to stay healthy in Korea- I found this very helpful when doing my food shopping around town.  Hope this helps you when reading your food labels in Korea.

Understanding Korean Food Labels

열량 Calories
탄수와물 Carbs
당류 Sugar
단백질 protein
지방 Fat
포화지방 unsat fat
트랜스지방 trans fat
콜레스테롤 cholesterol
나트륨 sodium
칼슘 calcium
식이셤유 fiber