Amidst quick meals and delicious, tempting recipes, eating for health can feel like a challenge. The origin of healthy eating doesn’t start in the kitchen; it begins with the grocery store.
A well-planned shopping list can help tone your diet options and prevent you from the trouble of making last-minute decisions (that often end up being unhealthy). Read more!
Tips for Healthy Grocery Shopping
- Shop for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
The basis of a healthy diet starts with fresh and unprocessed ingredients. Stock your cart with a variety of colours, including greens like spinach, broccoli, and fenugreek; bright reds and oranges, such as tomatoes, carrots, and bell peppers; and fruits like bananas, apples, and seasonal options like mango or guava.
It is best to opt for local and seasonal produce, as it saves money, provides the freshest food of the season, and promotes overall health.
- Bulk Buy Whole Grains and Pulses
Avoid the refined flours and white rice whenever possible. You can opt for whole grains, such as brown rice, oats, millets (bajra and ragi), and whole wheat flour. Pulses such as chana, moong, rajma, and masoor dal are also essential as they are rich in plant-based protein and help keep you full for longer.
- Invest in Healthy Proteins
Protein is highly important for maintaining energy and muscle mass. You can have lentils and dairy products like cottage cheese and Greek yoghurt to get healthy protein. A variety of nuts and seeds are also packed with fibre. One quick protein source is MB peanut butter that is convenient as bread spread. You can also blend it in smoothies or enjoy it straight from the spoon.
- For a Nutritious Breakfast
Avoid rushing your morning meals, as it can lead to overeating later in the day. The solution is to add healthy options to your pantry that make your breakfast easy. For example, you can buy fortified cereals, which are added with vitamins and minerals along with fibre. Pair them with milk or yoghurt for a quick, balanced start to your day.
- Scan the Label
Don’t be influenced by the buzzwords like low-fat and sugar-free and actually read the label. Always read the labels. Look for products with fewer ingredients, minimal added sugar, and good nutritional balance.
In Conclusion
By carefully selecting grocery items, you can pave the way for healthier meals. Focus on whole foods, balanced nutrition, and simple meal prep options, and you’ll be better equipped to make choices that benefit your body and mind. If you need a quick meal to eat for balanced protein and other macros, you can choose from several protein drinks in India that are available in flavours and formulas catering to different dietary needs.