Shopping tips for those who like to keep nutrition in mind

by Giani Joseph Nutritionist

Introduction

The basic intention behind making those weekly visits to the “food clinic” is to get the raw materials to make healthy and nutritious meals and snacks, but given the wide plethora of options, the seemingly simple decision can be a very overwhelming one.

But, there are ways to engage in healthy grocery shopping by keeping in mind the following tips.

12 Important Tips to Keep in Mind when Grocery Shopping

Make a List

When looking to stay healthy, it is important to shop with discipline. One should plan their entire week’s meals and the essential ingredients for the grocery shopping carts.

This helps in not going overboard and in avoiding the “junkyard”.

Do not shop on empty stomach

The good-old sound advice is helpful for avoiding the junkyard. Shopping on an empty stomach gives rise to impulsive shopping.

With the advent of the internet, it is possible for engaging in whatsapp grocery shopping.

Look at the serving size

It is important to look at the serving size (or portions) of the food item and think about how much of it you are likely to consume.

Avoid “buzzwords”

Marketing gimicks of sorts, while whatssap shopping or otherwise, one should focus on reading the ingredients and nutritional facts.

Assess the quality of those ingredients

This is quite self-explanatory!

Beware of labels such as low-fat and low-sugar

A marketing trick of sorts, low-fat is often compensated with higher sugar.

Include fruits and vegetables in your cart

To fulfil your in-house snacking needs or when looking to grab a quick bite before heading out, it is good to have healthy fruits and vegetables nearby.

Do not completely ditch the fats

Contrary to the popular opinion that one should eliminate fats, food items having omega-3 fats are healthy, and healthy grocery shopping in India cannot happen without these.

Make Realistic Changes

For those looking to change their grocery shopping items to revamp their diets, it is recommended that you make small and realistic changes you can stick to.

Calories (in moderation) is key

When engaging in healthy grocery shopping, calories are a good source of energy and help you battle long and hectic hours in the office, but only when consumed in moderation.

Suit Yourself

There is no “one-size-fits-all” meal plan. It is important to have a comfort zone and find what suits your system and stick to it.

Move around

Healthy eating and keeping a tab on calories consumed is not sufficient to stay healthy. It is equally important to keep track of calories that are burnt through regular physical exercise.

Takeaway

With no “one-size-fits-all” diet and health formula, the aforementioned guidance will go a long way in helping you make more health-conscious grocery shopping decisions.