Shopping Tips

[Cali13]

Someone said a while ago "Don't buy it if it has a label!" Translation? Only buy fresh foods, nothing canned or boxed. Since then I have learned to "Shop the Perimeter". The perimeter is where the fresh fruits and veggies are along with the meat, dairy and grains. I rarely go up the aisles except for dog/cat food, tea, paper products etc. This way I am buying healthier and I do not have to go through temptation aisles.

Don't be afraid to try new recipes.  I found a health magazine taht has some of the best new recipes I have ever tried.  So Google it, check the sites here, buy a new cookbook or recipe magazine, but be adventurous!  You might find something truly delicious and healthy.

[kalefan2013]

The outside parimeter shopping has become a habit for me as well. Works great on keeping the bill down at the register as well. So double bazinga points. If you find any great salad dressing ideas please share. I have only been able to find one suitable one. Made from oil, lemon juice and garlic. Does the trick but is now getting to boring

[Cali13]

Play with the basics...olive oil and vinegar.  Try Balsalmic or even apple cider vinegar.  Maybe some juices like apple, orange or pineapple, just be sure to watch the calories and carbs.  Try adding some fresh ground ginger or orange zest.  

[CindyFitbit]

Hey @Cali13 for this 2016 I really want to eat healthy food (I used to ate too much fast food). I think this is a great tip, I'm trying now to eat only home made food and I will try your buying tips for sure to accomplish my goal! Also, this will help my pocket too! 

[emili]

I stopped going to the store. I use a delivery service which will only bring the items on my shopping list. this way, I avoid the in the moment temptations and get just what I need. saves me money too- no unnecessary items. it was a little weird at first having someone else pick out my fruit, veg and proteins- but I got over it quick and love the freedom of not going.

[tamado]

Great post.  I buy some basic canned goods like beans and canned tomatoes as I cannot always get fresh, but other than that, I buy the perimeter as well.  I seldom walk up and down the center isles, I walk buy them and look down in case there's something I need but they do not get my focus.

[Robcorc]

Emili, I REALLY wish we had grocery delivery here in the edges of "ruraburban" America. My husband does all of our shopping because I am unable to get around the store these days (really hoping to change that by working my PT hard!), and it really burdens him if I want something new or different from our standard choices. Hopefully as more people utilize the services, they will spread a little further out for. The key metro areas of the country.

[emili]

I hope so too!! @Robcorc

[tamado]

I live in a town of 1,000 people and I know our little grocery store will at least fill the order if you have someone pick it up.  You could call your store and see if they would fill a grocery order and have your husband pick it up later.  This would save him time and stress and allow you to get the nutrition you need.  It doesn't hurt to ask and you would be surprised how accomodating small local businesses can be.

[HelenaFitbit]

Those are great tips @Cali13! I have to say that farmer's markets are my new favorite places to visit to get fresh produce and great artisan products. 

I even became acquainted with a baker who makes this ham, pepper and cheese stuffed braid that is heavenly! 

[WendyB]

Great tips Cali.

@HelenaFitbit I love farmers markets as well!

[Annie-NH]

I do most of my shopping on the perimeter but there are many things that i need that I can only get in a can.  I make my own pasta sauce but i need organic tomato puree to do it.  My rule isn't labels it is that I do not buy any overly processed or " meal in a box or can"  not in the can, box, or freezer.  I use fresh when I can but things like Artichoke bottoms or baby corn aren't available fresh in New England.  If I can make it from scratch I do.   When I have to buy processed I read those labels, and try for the ones with the fewest ingredients, organic when available.

I would never buy my dog food from a supermarket, he gets the best food from a local store that orders it for me.

[CindyFitbit]

Hey @Annie-NH I think the most important thing is that the majority of your diet is fresh and organic!