When you are trying to lose weight and eat in a healthier fashion, you might feel like there is a world of off-limit foods just waiting to tempt you at the grocery store. Shopping for the ingredients to make healthy, low-fat meals for your family may seem like a daunting task as you pass the bakery and frozen treats aisle. Arm yourself with the tools to get the job done with minimal distress at the grocery store.
Step 1
Make a shopping list before you go to the grocery store. Fill the list with healthy items, such as lean proteins, salad fixings, fresh fruits and whole grains. Working off a list makes you less likely to buy impulse items that will diminish your attempts to lose weight.
Step 2
Eat a protein-rich snack before you head to the supermarket. Filling your stomach with lean turkey, low-fat cheese or a fat-free yogurt before you shop can curb your desire to fill your cart with unhealthy snacks and treats when hunger strikes.
Step 3
Shop in a rectangular fashion, sticking mostly to the outer perimeter of the store. The freshest and least processed items, including produce, dairy, meats, seafood and breads tend to on the outer edges of the store. Pop into the middle aisles for heart-healthy items such as canned kidney beans, brown rice and whole-grain breakfast cereals. Stay away from the potato chip or cookie aisles completely.
Step 4
Bring a supportive friend or family member with you to the grocery store to hold you accountable for your purchases. A lively conversation can entertain and distract you from the tempting goodies throughout the store and in the checkout line.
Things You'll Need
- Shopping list
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