KAWARTHA LAKES-Now that we’re back into the swing of things and ready to tackle this new year, I am going to tell you my favourite grocery shopping tips to keep you on track.
Grocery shopping can be quite intimidating for many people. If you are trying to turn over a new leaf this year, you need to plan ahead and have your kitchen stocked with lots of healthy food so it’s easier to reach your goals-and not be munching on junk food as you watch tv.
Don’t head into the grocery store without keeping my top tips in mind!
Here they are:
Make and Take a List: It’s important to take a list to the grocery store to not only get all the things you need for the amazing meals you will prepare this week, but to also avoid overspending, as well as not forget anything! Perosnally, I keep a pad of paper out throughout the week so I can jot down whatever we run out of, whatever needs stocking up on, or whatever I feel like eating the following week. If you plan your meals ahead for the following week, you’ll have a general idea of what you need to cook them. I also like to look in the cupboards and fridge to take an “inventory” before going shopping so I can visually see what needs stocking up on and then I add it to my list!
Read The Ingredients on Labels: I am not about counting calories or macros at all, but what I am picky about is the ingredients in my food. Look at the ingredients list, and give yourself extra time so you can become a conscious consumer. Sometimes going through the aisles and reading ingredients lists will take a little extra time while you are learning to be a pro, but once your pro, it’ll be easy! Here’s what to look for on those ingredient lists: preservatives and additives, excess sugars, and excess salts. The general rule of thumb: if you can’t pronounce it and don’t know what it is; don’t buy it!
Try To Limit Plastic as Much as Possible: So many of us have the best of intentions when it comes to this, but really try to put it into practice. It’s better for the environment and once you’ve made it a habit, you’ll never forget! Put those bags in your car before every trip, make sure you bring enough of them, and even be mindful of the produce bags-they are still bags! I try to limit them as much as possible and even try to bring my own.
Purchase Organic as Much as Possible: Organic foods are no doubt more expensive but very much worth it, not only for your health, but again, the environment. If you are new to buying organic, here are the “Dirty Dozen” foods that are heavily sprayed with pesticides and herbicides that you must buy organic: Strawberries, spinach, nectarines, apples, grapes, peaches, cherries, pears, tomatoes, celery, potatoes, bell peppers. Also, if you buy your organics in bulk, you can save a ton of money!
Make The Majority of Your Foods Whole Foods: I’m sure you’ve heard this before but shop the perimeter of the grocery store because that is where the healthiest foods are. Whole foods are the foods in their whole state and typically don’t have a nutrition label on them. These are your best bets when it comes to healthy eating because it came from nature!
There you have it, next time you go grocery shopping you’ll be that much closer to shopping like a pro!
If you’d love a weekly whole-foods recipe sent right to your inbox, visit www.sweathappywellness.com and sign up for my 48 hour Sugar Detox. HAPPY SHOPPING!
Becky Sheehey is a Holistic Health Coach, and a Pilates and Movement Expert with a background in Kinesiology. She lives in Lindsay.
