10 Tips for Shopping Smart: It’s Healthier and Less Expensive
Written by Ann Pietrangelo on December 2nd, 2008 in Health, Tips & Tricks.
1. At the grocery store, it is wise to shop the parameter and wear blinders in the center aisles, where the high sugar, high carbohydrate foods are located.
2. In the produce section, select plenty of fresh vegetables, especially leafy greens. Fresh fruit is the healthiest choice for your sweet tooth. These items have a limited lifespan, so only buy what you can use within one week or so.
3. When buying bread, read the label to be sure that whole grain is the first ingredient listed.
4. Don’t shy away from the spice aisle – that’s where you can experiment with flavors!
5. Do read labels on items such as salad dressing, barbeque sauce, marinades and condiments because some brands may have unnecessary additives and an overdose of sugar. Also beware of added sugar in juice drinks.
6. Cereal, crackers, white rice, pastries, cookies, cakes, pies, potato chips, etc. should be severely limited. If you must buy soft drinks, caffeine free/sugar free (made with Splenda) are best.
7. In the meat department, fish and poultry are the healthiest choices. Lean cuts of pork and red meat are fine. Processed meats should be kept to a minimum.
8. Compare expensive brands with store brands – in many instances you will find the same ingredients and flavor at a substantial savings.
9. Keep a shopping list in a handy place in your kitchen and add to it whenever you are running low on an item. Shopping with a prepared list and keeping your trips to the store down to once a week will cut down on impulse purchases.
10. Remember that food is fuel for your body, so fuel up on premium!
