The first step to healthy eating is purchasing nutritious foods. Meal preparation, healthy snacks and cooking all start with having your house full of the right kinds of food. Shopping at the grocery store can be overwhelming for many as they wind around the various aisles filled with sweets and snacks. It’s time to develop a game plan and get ready to stock up on the best foods.
Nutritious Foods: They Start with Your Cart
When you are ready to shop, you must come in with a game plan. Wandering around aimlessly can lead to the wrong foods ending up in your cart. Before you go, develop a plan. Take a quick moment to jot down a list of your weekly meals, empty boxes and veggies you need to refresh. This is a great way to ensure you get what you need and don’t stray too far from your focus. While you plan for the shopping trip, make sure you are ready for the task. Don’t shop hungry, wear comfortable shoes and try to avoid peak times like weekends to make your trip a little easier.
When you enter the store, avoid areas of temptation. Don’t make yourself walk down the bakery and chip aisle. Instead, focus on the produce, meat and dairy areas. These products are the staple of your diet. Spend some time in the produce section. Don’t be afraid to pick up a new vegetable, purchase a pre-made fruit salad and add a new lettuce to your dinner salad. So much nutrition is packed into this area. Pack your cart with protein and dairy. Look for lean meats and dairy to round out your plan.
Take some time to look for new foods. Everyone gets caught in a rut with food choices. Instead of eating the same foods each week, plan to add a new food or recipe. Try Cheesy pizza with cauliflower pizza crust or spaghetti squash and turkey meatballs. Take five extra minutes to look for something new. This will be a great way to keep things fun and exciting!
Look at alternate ways to shop. Consider online shopping. Many grocery stores offer online shopping options with curb side pick-up for a small fee. Others deliver to your home. What’s the benefit? There are several! You can make sure you get everything on your list and avoid the things that aren’t. You can choose your foods leisurely at home without the temptation of cookies or chips on sale.
Above all, have fun and be healthy!
About the Author:
Sarah Muntel, RD, is the Bariatric Coordinator at Community Bariatric Surgeons in Indianapolis, IN. She has 15 years of experience working with bariatric patients and loves to watch people as they change their lives and improve their health. Her favorite part of her job is her weekly support group. In her free time, Sarah enjoys spending time with her husband and three children.
