This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UVA chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.
- Go Around the Perimeter of the Store First: All of the healthy fruits and vegetables, as well as protein, such as meat and dairy, are found on the outside perimeter of the store. Fill your cart first with these healthy options before you hit the inside of the store, which contains more processed and packaged food. If possible avoid the interior completely!
- Check Out the Coupon Books at the Entrance to the Store: Stores are always having special deals, so it makes sense to take advantage of them. Be sure to grab the books found either outside of the store near the carts or just by the entrance of the store. They can save you a lot of money and even inspire you to try a new food option!
- Carry a Basket Instead of a Cart: If you carry a basket, you can get an extra arm workout. It also can help you limit the food that you are buying and make you think twice before you stock up on unhealthy sodas, and frozen meals that weigh a lot!
- Make a List and Stick to It: When you think of food that you need for the week, it is easier to write down a healthy list of foods and avoid junk foods, than to simply say no in the store when the junk food is staring you in the face! Make a list of foods that you know are healthy and good for you and stick to it when you shop!
- Eat Before You Shop: If you eat before you shop, you are more likely to stick to your list and avoid junk foods. You also will not just be thinking about a quick fix to satisfy your hunger, such as chips or candy.
- Create a Rainbow in Your Cart: Your cart should be filled with colorful, fresh produce, not canned or processed items.
- It is Not Just the Calories that Count: When shopping, look at the label for more than just the calories. As a rule of thumb, try to avoid goods with more than 5 ingredients and artificial ingredients or flavors.
- Buy Fruit and Veggies a Few Days before they Ripen: When you are buying food for just yourself, it is hard to eat everything before it goes bad, so stagger the ripeness of your fruits and veggies so they will last longer!
- Beware of Bread: Carbs are not always bad for you. Everyone needs fiber to maintain a healthy diet, but be mindful when you are trying to buy whole wheat bread. Just because bread is brown does not mean it is made with 100% whole wheat. Companies often use cheaper molasses to make bread look like it is whole wheat and to make it taste better so you buy more. STOP! Check and make sure that it is 100% whole wheat before you place it into your cart, or preferably basket!
- Check Out, and Check Out Only: Stores place unhealthy candy and snacks on the side aisles of the check out to distract you and allow you to place last minute poor purchases in your basket. Avoid these temptations! Go at a non-busy grocery time, such as in between your classes and avoid waiting in line and buying those unhealthy temptations!
Follow these 10 tips while grocery shopping and you will be on your way to healthy living before you even check out!