You want to be conscious about eating healthy, but are you still have problems staying on track? Let’s take a look at what’s in your kitchen. Is that a bag of potato chips on top of refrigerator? What about the one (or two) containers of ice cream in the freezer. Oh, we don’t have to stay in the kitchen. How about that package of cookies in your nightstand drawer next to your bed.
If you are serious about changing your eating habits, consider limiting the unhealthy foods that you keep in your home. You will be less tempted to eat them if they are not in your reach. And it all starts with your purchases at the grocery store.
Here are 10 tips for a successful and healthier grocery shopping experience.
1. Decide what meals you plan to prepare for the week.
If you know what meals you plan to prepare, you can better determine the ingredients you need to purchase.
2. Write out a list, and remember to take it with you!
Better yet, store it on your phone by taking a picture of the list or using your NOTES app. You will want to stick to just purchasing the items on your list; so, take your time on determining the items you need. It may help when you write out your list to keep everything in categories (i.e. produce, canned goods, dairy, etc.). It could be inconvenient to list tomatoes as item 2, only to realize that item 10 is onions, and you are near the check out lanes at the opposite end of the store.
3. Swap out your usual snacks for healthier choices.
Do this in steps 1 and 2 when you are planning your meals and writing out your list.
4. Don’t go shopping when you are hungry.
This may cause you to pick up everything that looks good, even if it is not on your list.
5. Don’t go shopping when you are not feeling well.
This may cause you not to find anything appetizing and fail to purchase enough food. When your appetite returns, you may realize that you do not have the items needed to make a meal.
6. Go shopping when you can take your time and not have to rush.
When you shop early, the store is usually quieter. Going later in the day when the store is crowded may leave you flustered and cause you to forget items. Taking your time keeps you in a better mood, and you may enjoy it (see step 10).
7. If possible, go shopping by yourself.
You’ll want to keep the distractions down, and not be influenced to purchase unhealthy items.
8. Wear comfortable shoes.
That way the discomfort won’t make you leave the store before purchasing all of your items.
9. Read the food label ingredients.
Get in the habit of reading food labels so that you know what you are eating, especially when you change from a brand that you normally purchase. Hopefully this will help you start making better choices in the future. (I will post a future blog on understanding food labels).
10. Envision grocery shopping as an adventure.
If you hate grocery shopping, try to look at it as an adventure. Look for bargain items and compare brands.
If your budget allows, consider using a service like DoorDash or Instacart. That can ensure that only the items on your list will be purchased.
Hopefully you find these tips helpful for your next shopping trip. Keeping your house “junk free” can help you stay on target to meet your health and weight goals.