Navigating the grocery store when trying to lose weight can feel overwhelming. What foods should you buy? How do you keep all of the tempting treats out of your cart? Here are our tips for stocking up and staying on track the Red Mountain Way.
Before You Shop
Make a Meal Plan
Think about what you are going to cook for the week ahead. Then, take inventory of what you already have in the pantry and what you need to buy. This will allow you to shop more efficiently and be less likely to impulse buy at the store.
Get Rewarded
Enroll in your store’s rewards program before you shop to maximize your savings. You may be able to earn points for every dollar you spend, access special pricing, and other perks.
Map Out Your Trip
Organize your list based on where items are located in the store. You’ll want to start with the produce section and end with the refrigerated and frozen sections to keep away from the processed foods typically found in the middle aisles.
When You’re at the Store
Don’t Shop Hungry
Plan your trip to the store in advance and ensure you have time to eat beforehand to avoid impulse purchases.
Shop the Perimeter
This is where you will find fresh produce, meat, and often bulk foods. By shopping the outer rim of the store, you will avoid processed foods and all the other unhealthy stuff you don’t need.
Read the Label
Avoid foods with artificial ingredients or additives like high-fructose corn syrup and artificial sweeteners. Generally, the fewer ingredients a food has, the healthier it is. The most nutritious foods — like fruits and vegetables — don’t even have labels.
Can’t Stock Up in Person?
Most stores offer free delivery with a minimum purchase or curbside pickup. You can save past orders or favorite items to make reordering easy, allowing you to avoid the store — and temptations — all together!
Which Foods Should Be On Your Grocery List?
Fruits
Fruits are packed with antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. Their low glycemic index makes them a good choice for weight loss and maintenance because they prevent blood sugar spikes that might otherwise lead to increased hunger.
Vegetables
Vegetables should make up the bulk of your grocery list. They come in various colors, textures, and flavors and add more volume to your meal. Vegetables are also excellent sources of dietary fiber, which could aid weight loss.
Lean Proteins
Protein is one of the three macronutrients we need for a healthy diet and can help you to feel satisfied. Look for lean cuts of meat like chicken breast or tenderloin and balance your plate with plenty of vegetables.
Now that you are stocked up on healthy foods, it’s time to meal prep! Explore the most popular meal prep methods to find the one that works best for your lifestyle.
