What You Need to Know When Shopping or Groceries
By Sara Butler
You may think that grocery shopping is as easy as simply grabbing a cart and filling it with your favorite foods, but it's more complicated than that -- especially if you're focused on healthy eating. Grocery stores are made to be enticing but there are some product placement and branding that can lead you to the dark side if you're not careful. Here are a few tips to help you achieve your health goals when food shopping.
Don't Go Hungry
The grocery store is a feast for your eyes and your stomach. If you go in hungry, then you're more likely to leave with a bunch of things you don't need or want -- many that aren't as healthy as you probably want them to be, either. Have a snack or a meal before going to the store. That way you can make decisions with your head and not with your stomach.
Go Light in the Middle
There are some good things to be found in the middle aisles of the grocery store such as oatmeal and wild rice, but the middle aisles are mostly a nutritional no man's land. That's because this is where all the prepackaged, highly processed foods are stored. These types of foods should be avoided at all costs and you're far better off sticking to the foods you buy at the store's perimeter.
Be Prepared
If you know what you need to buy for the week, then make a list. Having a list can help you not overshop and buy unhealthy items you simply don't need. Plus, it gives you clear direction in the store so you're not seduced by flashy merchandise or amazing displays of soda and cookies build into a structure that resembles your favorite local sports mascot.
Buy in Bulk
Buying in bulk is a great way to save a little money and cut down on unnecessary packaging. Things such as coconut and almond flour, quinoa, beans, and lentils are usually less expensive when purchased in bulk and have a long shelf life too.
Pile on Protein
Make sure you're spending adequate time shopping for protein and choose lean cuts, such as chicken breasts instead of thighs or ground turkey instead of beef. Plant-based proteins abound too, so pick up some tofu to add to your weekly stir-fry.
Remember, a grocery store is designed to sell you things. Make sure those things are what you really need and don't fall victim to their targeting tactics!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in South Jordan, Utah.