Filling your home with healthy foods is one of the best ways to stay on track during a medical weight loss program. When you shop healthy at the food store, it becomes easier to abide by your dietary plan as you create healthy meals and search through the pantry for snacks.
Cookies, chips, ice cream—they are hard enough to resist as you peruse the aisles of your local grocery store. Once you have them in your pantry it is almost too easy to indulge, and this can make it difficult to reach your weight loss goals.
During your weight loss program you’ll work with your weight loss doctor to create a meal plan that fits your lifestyle needs. Keep that meal plan in mind as you start shopping.
Here are five ways you can improve your food shopping habits:
- Buy More Fresh Produce – Fresh fruits and vegetables contain essential vitamins, antioxidants and fiber, all of which are great for medical weight loss. Your body needs nutrients to function optimally, and a fiber-rich diet can help you feel full. Plus, most fruits and vegetables are naturally low in fat, making them perfect snack choices.
- Evaluate that Dairy – While dairy tastes delicious, most dairy products are naturally high in fat. Make sure to get non-fat versions when available. If you want the higher-fat variety, get just enough for one meal to avoid keeping too much at home.
- Check those Grains – Whole grains contain more fiber and more nutrients than other grains and are best for you and your weight loss efforts, so leave white bread, pasta, rice and crackers for another day.
- Watch the Canned Goods– Canned fruits and vegetables store well and make easy additions to meals, but canned foods are also notorious for containing additives. Go for low or no-sodium varieties when possible, and avoid canned fruits with added sugars as much as possible.
- Know Your Bulk Section–The bulk department at the grocery store may be the best place to buy things like nuts, seeds, and dried fruits and vegetables. Feel free to stock up on bulk items that support your medical weight loss goals. Unsalted, unroasted cashews, almonds and walnuts contain heart-healthy fats. Dried red lentils add color to lentil soup dishes. Dried fruits make great on-the-go snacks, just watch the labels to avoid unnecessary additives or preservatives.
If a healthier lifestyle starts at home, then a healthy home starts at the store. Keep helpful tips like these in mind as you are trying to lose weight. Being smart with your choices at the food store can set you up for a full week of healthy eating.
