September 21, 2015 · Written by Foodtolive Team
How to Shop for Healthier Food
We are what we eat, so to be healthy and feel fit you need to know what healthier foods look like and how to shop for them. Grocery stores offer many competing options; labels are claiming to have more protein and less fat, so it can be challenging to make a beneficial choice. Here are our top 5 simple tips on how to shop for healthier foods:
Shop the outer perimeter of the store for fresh produce
Plan ahead, create a weekly menu and make a shopping list
Search for new healthy recipes to surprise your family members, find out what products you need, and write down a full shopping list. You simply should stick to the list and avoid buying prepared foods with “hidden” extras that might include fats, sugar, preservatives, and other chemicals. Make sure to avoid all soda, choose juices and water instead. This is the easiest way to control what foods you consume.
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Find the farmers market and shop there
If you want to buy sustainable, fresh, and local produce, you should consider shopping at the nearest farmers market. You will be surprised, but many items are cheaper, compared to those in the grocery store. Many farmers use organic growing methods, but they just do not have the money or time to get certified as organic. You should get to know the local farmers, so you will find great deals on healthier food.
Read the labels carefully
Learn what “organic” and “natural” really means
Food producers know that their customers often do not know what the use of the words “organic” and “natural” means. If you do not want to be confused, keep the following information in mind. The organic label is earned through a certification process. Foods can be labeled as “made with organic ingredients,” “organic” (95 – 99 % organic), and “100 % organic.” The use of “natural” on labels is a claim of a producer that is not subject to inspections, so you should just take their word for it.