Strategies to Conquer the Grocery Store

When you walk into the grocery store, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by all the options and types of foods that are around you. That’s why it’s important to go into the store with a plan and use strategies that will help you pile up on unrefined, healthy foods that will have your body thanking you later!

First, let’s start by covering what unrefined foods are and why they are the most important to look out for. The term “refined” food refers to processed or enriched products such as chips, baked goods, candy and soft drinks. “Unrefined” foods are therefore natural food sources such as fruits, vegetables, nuts and whole grains. You can read more on these types of foods in our post on exploring the benefits of unrefined foods. To summarize their benefits, unrefined foods help with the following:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Preventing infections and diseases
• Promoting a healthy digestive system

With these benefits and many more, unrefined foods should be at the top of your grocery list. Here are the best strategies for maneuvering through the grocery store to pick up these healthy foods!

The Produce Section is a Great Place to Start

The produce section is full of all the fruits and vegetables that our body’s need. Loading up in the produce aisle will help provide your diet with vitamins, minerals, and fiber to promote many health benefits.

Stay Away from the Junk Food Aisle

The junk food section of the grocery store is full of refined foods like the chips and candy mentioned earlier that do our body no favours. Avoiding these aisles will help keep you on the right track and avoid unhealthy cravings.

Make a Grocery List Throughout the Week

Keep a grocery list in your phone so that as soon as you think of something you need throughout the week, you can write it down. This will reduce stress in the grocery store and provide you with a clear plan as soon as you walk in.

Don’t Go Grocery Shopping when you’re Hungry

When you’re feeling hungry while shopping, you’re much more likely to stray from your list and wander toward the unhealthier foods. Going on a full stomach can also help you stick to buying your normal portions instead of letting hunger get the best of you, which will help prevent over-spending.