How to Grocery Shop for Better Health
By Genevieve Cunningham
Getting healthy is a difficult task. Often times, it means changing your exercise routine and diet completely. And this can be incredibly difficult. For most people, the hardest part is the diet. We're so used to our current menus, it's a true challenge to buy new foods and make new recipes. But it's possible, and the best place to start is at the grocery store. If you're looking to make a healthy change in your life, take a look at these tips for shopping for better health and getting your lifestyle turned around.
Plan Ahead
Anytime that you're going to buy food at the grocery store, it's best to plan ahead. Before you ever leave your house, you should make a list. Plan your meals for a week at a time. Write down all of the ingredients that you'll need for each healthy meal. Condense where you can, and make your list all-encompassing. Leave off any junk food, fried foods, or calorie-packed or sugar-filled snacks. The more planned you are, the less likely you are to put junk in the basket and bring it home.
Don’t Go Hungry
If you can avoid it, do not go to the store hungry. When your stomach is empty, you're more likely to grab and go. What does this mean? It means that everything will suddenly look delicious. You'll be far more likely to grab a bag of chips, a candy bar and on the impulse aisle, or to get something to snack on for the ride home. Try to eat something, or at the very least drink something, before you ever hit the store. This can save you a lot of time, money, and potential calories in your grocery shopping experience.
Hold Yourself Accountable
If you're serious about getting healthy, it's best to tell others. Let your spouse, roommate, or another friend or family member know about your goals. When you're about to hit the store, tell them. When you get home, let them help you put away the groceries. This may help you steer clear of the junk food aisle, as they can help to hold you accountable to your own goals. It might be difficult in the beginning, but this will help you build some self-discipline and meet your goals even faster.
Shopping for healthier food might feel difficult at first, but it will definitely get easier. The more you do it, the easier it will get. You'll begin to learn which foods to buy and which to avoid. Give yourself some time, and be patient with yourself. Over time your shopping habits will get better, and your health will improve like never before.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Van Nuys, Calif.