6 Tips for Making Your Grocery Trips Healthier

Weight loss and healthy eating is a journey that begins at the grocery store.

Grocery shopping is the key to wellness and healthy eating. Although some people think shopping for groceries is a chore, it really doesn’t have to be. You have the power to make good health decisions regarding what you choose to nourish your body with. Remember, if you shop well, you’ll eat well. Reflect on how you can improve your diet and use these six simple tips to make every grocery trip a healthy one.

1. Make a list and stick to it!

To save yourself from helplessly wandering around the store for hours, prepare a list beforehand. Organize a list of breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals, and be sure to include your staple ingredients. Consider trying new foods and recipes, and be sure to contain their ingredients in your shopping list. Having a list also helps you avoid unnecessary junk and snacks.

2. Never shop hungry

This tip makes a huge difference when you’re shopping. Shopping hungry urges you to make unhealthy choices because you’re seeking out foods you’re craving or thinking of consuming. You’re also more inclined to spend more money. Choose to eat or have a snack before going to the market.

3. Bring a buddy

Have a trusted friend or family member tag you to the store. Not only will they help influence you to make wise decisions, but they could make the trip a lot more fun than shopping alone.

4. Shop the perimeter first

If you didn’t already know, most healthy items or staple foods are found in the perimeter of grocery stores. The perimeter includes your produce, meat and poultry, dairy, and grains. Take your time shopping in the perimeter, especially in the produce section, where you should load your cart with fruits and vegetables. Most unhealthy food items are usually in the center aisle, so head for the center aisles last if you need to.

5. Choose real foods

Choosing wholesome foods is the best way to go for a healthier diet. Pick out fresh and raw versions of foods, including fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, etc. Try eliminating as many added sugars, fats, preservatives, and artificial ingredients as possible. Remember, the fewer ingredients, the better!

6. Pay attention to the labels

Eat for your body’s sake of nourishment and health. Nothing is more important than the ingredients you put into your body. By this, pay close attention to nutrition labels, ingredients, and brand statements. Just because a packaging says “Fat-free,” “Reduced fat,” or “Gluten-free” doesn’t mean it’s healthy. Most of the time, they have just as many calories because of the added sugar and additives to help them taste better without the fat.