When trying to eat healthy, going to the grocery store can be a delightful trip or one you dread. Your healthy lifestyle depends on the food you purchase at the supermarket.
Change How You Shop for Your Groceries. Eat before going to the grocery store. Everything looks good when you’re hungry. Shopping with a full stomach makes it much easier to maintain willpower when faced with a box of cookies on the way home.
Plan Weekly Menus. If healthy eating isn’t a priority, planning nutritious menu options in advance can help you stick to your diet. Planning out your menu helps you stay focused at the grocery store. Don’t completely deprive yourself, though. Treat yourself to a special treat if you stick with your plan.
Read the Food Labels. Read food labels to check for hidden fats and sugars. The ingredients listed on either side of the cereal box often fall short of the claims on the front.
Experiment with New Foods. When it comes to food, one important thing to remember is that variety is key to enjoying what you’re eating – even if you’re trying to eat less. Exotic produce can be a great way to add flavor to your meals. Something as simple as indulging in the tutti-frutti flavor of cherimoya or roasting a chayote squash can make a difference. Try new foods and techniques. Allow yourself to use your imagination and experiment in the kitchen.
Shop the Perimeter of the Store. Higher quality foods are around the outer edge of the store. Fruit, dairy, fish, and lean protein are on the outer isles. Shop the inside isles of the grocery store when you need something specific off your grocery list. This strategy can help save you a lot of empty calories.
Stock up on Fruits and Vegetables. Fill your cart with fruit and vegetables instead of processed foods. Try to get a variety of different colored fruits and vegetables. Purchasing colorful produce is a great way to ensure your diet is high in nutrition and balanced.
Select Whole Grains. White bread and white rice may be cheaper. However, whole grains are healthier. So, buy wheat bread and brown rice instead.
Buy Lean Cuts of Meat. Incorporate lean proteins into your diet, such as sirloin strip steak and skinless chicken breast. When in doubt, ask someone at the butcher counter to point out the leanest cuts of protein.
Buy Plenty of Fish. Aim to cook at least two servings of fish each week. Seafood recipes are usually easy, quick, and extremely healthy.
Pick Low-Fat Dairy Items. Replace whole-milk dairy products with low-fat dairy items. Buy low-fat types of yogurt, yogurt, and skim milk.
Cut out Processed Food. You may be paying a high price for convenience food. In addition to the higher cost, frozen dinners and commercial crackers often contain trans fats and unknown chemicals. At the same time, it takes only minutes to whip up whole wheat pita bread at home.
Learning to navigate the supermarket wisely can help you enjoy your grocery shopping. It also means you purchase delicious, nutrient-rich foods for you and your family. To get started, try using some tips from this article next time you go to the store.
