Final answer:
A savvy nutrition consumer should avoid cereals that list processed ingredients like white flour or white rice as the first ingredient on the nutrition facts label, as these have fewer nutrients than whole foods.
Step-by-step explanation:
A savvy nutrition consumer looking for a fiber-rich cereal would be wise to put back a product with a processed ingredient listed as the first ingredient. Since ingredients are listed in descending order by weight, the first ingredient is the most abundant in the product.
High fiber foods typically list whole grains, vegetables, or fruits as their first ingredient. Processed ingredients, such as white flour or white rice, should be avoided because processing removes nutrients, making these foods less beneficial than their whole food counterparts.
For optimal health, it is recommended to consume fiber-rich products that include whole food sources of fiber such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Fiber is crucial for a healthy digestive system and can assist in preventing the absorption of unhealthy substances like cholesterol. Therefore, checking the nutrition facts label is essential to ensure you are making the best choices for your dietary needs.