One of the best ways to improve the health and nutrition of your diet is to reduce or eliminate the consumption of processed foods. These foods often contain excess calories, sugar, fat and unhealthy preservative and additives. By turning to healthy and fresh, non-processed foods you will give your body the nutrients it needs for good health.
Step 1
Shop around the exterior of the supermarket. This is where you will find fresh produce, dairy, meats and cheeses. Many unhealthy packaged, processed foods are in the interior aisles. If you steer clear of them, you will be less likely to purchase them.
Step 2
Choose fresh foods as often as possible. This includes fruits, vegetables and meats. Make these foods the focus of your meals. Take advantage of local sources such as farmer's markets.
Step 3
Purchase whole-grain breads from local bakeries that make them fresh daily. The shelf life is shorter, but these breads are less processed.
Step 4
Reduce your consumption of canned foods, frozen meals and fast food. All can contain excess sodium and processed components.
Step 5
Cook more of your own food. Plan your meals for the week and prepare foods ahead of time that can be reheated later. Use a slow-cooker to cook meals all day while you work and enjoy them for dinner when you arrive home.
Step 6
Choose salad bars and delis when you need convenient take-out. Many supermarkets offer delicious salad bars with lots of choices and delis with foods such as sushi, salads and sandwiches made fresh daily.
Step 7
Make your own snacks with fresh foods and skip boxed snack mixes and sweets. Enjoy carrot sticks and hummus, Greek yogurt and fruit or dried fruit and nuts.
Step 8
Bake your own homemade desserts and reduce packaged baked goods. Making your own cookies and cakes allows you to know what ingredients are included and eliminate any unnecessary preservatives.
Tips and Warnings
- If you aren't ready to give up all packaged foods, aim to purchase only those with the shortest ingredient lists and ingredients you know and understand.
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