Heading the grocery store, for many of us, is a mad dash of impulse buys, skimming a list, and a focus on convenience. Quick snacks, the sale of the week, frozen meals, and canned foods all end up filling our lists as we try to get in and out and have enough to eat that week. Even those trying to eat healthier tend to make their choices within this narrow selection of options, and that could be holding them back. Shopping for groceries with a holistic viewpoint in mind can help you make healthier selections that are more filling and leave you feeling better after you eat.
An Introduction To Shopping For Groceries Holistically
The first question in your mind is likely, “What’s holistic shopping?” While it may sound like the latest hippy food fad, it’s actually a method of shopping that has you thinking about the origins of your food. Holistic shopping focuses on getting as close to the food’s original form as possible. Instead of buying frozen food, you buy the items that make that meal in an unprocessed form. Even frozen corn can be a great step towards holistic shopping if you usually buy pre-made meals. You can start moving towards a more holistic way of shopping by taking the following steps:
- Choose Your Dietary Style – Are you vegan? Keto? Paleo? Vegetarian? A dyed in the wool carnivore? Regardless of your preferences in diet, it’s important to keep them in mind when building your list.
- Build A List – Speaking of lists, that’s the next step in your process. Construct a list that includes all of the things you need to stock your shelves. Once the list is complete, take some time to consider alternatives to your usual choices. Perhaps boneless skinless chicken breasts instead of nuggets, for instance.
- Broaden Your Shopping Experience – Look for new places to shop that can help you get closer to fully natural food. Farmer’s markets often provide meat, dairy, and produce options that are healthier and also help support the local community. Specialty food stores service those with more restrictive diets, while Costco can help you get healthy items in bulk.
These few steps may seem simple, but they can improve your overall shopping experience and help you start making changes towards a healthier diet.
Consult With Your Nutritionist For More Help
If you’re struggling to decide what healthy choices you can make to start eating more holistically, it’s time to speak to your nutritionist. They can offer guidance and food options you may not previously have considered. Shopping for foods that are more natural, less processed, and free from the sugars and preservatives found in many prepackaged foods these days will set you on the path for a healthier you in years to come. Remember that the smallest changes can create a huge difference in how you look and feel!
