Committing to eating better is a fantastic first step toward good health, but navigating the grocery aisle to fuel your new lifestyle can feel overwhelming. Countless options line the shelves, from blatantly unhealthy treats to deceptively marketed “health foods.”
Richard Smith-Bernal from The Juice Smith gives his top tips for confidently navigating the grocery store and making informed choices for a healthier you.
The Perimeter Powerhouse
Committing to a healthy diet can seem intimidating. But what if the secret was hidden in the grocery store layout? Believe it or not, navigating the aisles can be as simple as following the walls.
Richard says, ‘Perimeter shopping is a simple strategy for healthy eating. Instead of navigating the shopping cart maze in the middle of the store, just follow the walls around the perimeter. You’ll be guided towards fresh produce, lean proteins, and whole grains while naturally bypassing the processed food.’
Plan Ahead
Planning meals and making a list might seem tedious, but it’s a game-changer for healthier eating. By stocking up on kitchen staples and mapping out your week’s meals, you’ll save time and make healthier choices at the store.
Buy Organic Whenever Possible
Opting for organic foods can significantly reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals found in pesticides and herbicides. While it may involve some financial considerations, prioritising organic options whenever possible contributes to your overall wellness.
Watch Out For Health Marketing Buzzwords
Labels like “all-natural” or “low-fat” can be deceiving, often used as marketing tactics rather than indicators of healthfulness. Learning to decipher labels and ingredient lists empowers you to make informed choices, avoiding the pitfalls of empty calories, high sugar, and unnecessary preservatives while focusing on nourishing whole foods.
Read Labels Like A Pro
Reading labels is crucial in today’s food shopping landscape, where unhealthy products often masquerade as healthy options. Pay attention to ingredients, particularly their order and potential disguises like ingredient splitting. This will help you spot when a product isn’t as healthy as it’s claiming to be.
