Committing to eating better is a great first step toward good health, but navigating the aisles of the grocery store to promote a new lifestyle can feel overwhelming. There are countless options on the shelves, from blatantly unhealthy treats to deceptively marketed “health foods.”
Richard Smith-Bernal of The Juice Smith shares his top tips for confidently navigating the grocery store and making informed choices for your healthier self.
Perimeter Powerhouse
Committing to a healthy diet can seem daunting. But what if the secret was hidden in the Ruokauppa’s exterior? Believe it or not, navigating corridors can be as easy as following walls.
Richard says: “Perimeter shopping is a simple strategy for healthy eating. Instead of navigating a maze of shopping carts in the middle of the store, just follow the perimeter walls. You’ll be guided towards fresh produce, lean proteins and whole grains, while skipping processed foods.
Plan ahead
Meal planning and making a list may seem boring, but it makes a difference in eating healthier. By reserving kitchen supplies and mapping out the meals for the week, you save time and make healthier choices in the store.
Buy organic whenever possible
Choosing organic foods can significantly reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals found in pesticides and herbicides. While there may be some financial considerations involved, prioritizing organic options whenever possible will contribute to your overall well-being.
Beware of health marketing buzzwords
Labels such as “all natural” or “low fat” can be misleading and are often used as marketing tactics rather than health indicators. Learning how to interpret labels and ingredient lists empowers you to make informed choices and avoid the pitfalls of empty calories, high sugar, and unnecessary preservatives and focus on nutritious whole foods.
Read labels like a pro
Label reading is crucial in today’s grocery shopping environment, where unhealthy products are often disguised as healthy options. Pay attention to the ingredients, especially their order and possible masks, such as splitting of the ingredients. This will help you spot when a product is not as healthy as it claims to be.