Shopping The Grocery Store Perimeter Aisles
Healthier eating doesn’t require drastic changes! Sometimes, it’s as simple as changing how you shop at your local grocery store. One effective strategy is shopping the perimeter aisles of the store, where fresh produce, meats, dairy, and whole grains reside, steering clear of the processed foods in the inner aisles. This post will guide you through creating a healthy grocery list and making the most of your perimeter shopping experience.
- The Benefits of Shopping the Perimeter
When you shop the perimeter of the grocery store, you’re immersing yourself in the world of fresh and whole foods—essential components of a balanced diet. These sections of the store typically house fruits, vegetables, fresh meats, and dairy products, which are lower in artificial ingredients and higher in essential nutrients than their processed counterparts. Focusing on these areas can naturally shift your diet towards more wholesome food choices, improving overall health. Foods located on the perimeter of the grocery store are abundant in protein, fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Making this simple adjustment to your shopping habits can have a significant impact. - Seasonal Shopping Strategies
One of the joys of perimeter shopping is the access to seasonal produce, which is often fresher and more affordable. Seasonal fruits and vegetables not only taste better but they also offer higher nutritional content due to being harvested at peak ripeness. During the spring, pick fresh beets, lettuces, asparagus, and cucumbers. In the summer months, grab peaches, tomatoes, sweet corn, berries, and cabbage. In the fall, get your squash, sweet potatoes, turnips, pears, and cauliflower. In the winter months, aim to get leeks, grapefruit, walnuts, and winter squash. Familiarize yourself with the seasonal cycles in your area and plan your meals accordingly. This not only enhances your diet but also supports local agriculture. - Best Times to Shop for Freshness and Savings
To get the freshest produce and the best deals, timing is key. Grocery stores usually restock their perishable goods midweek, making this the perfect time to shop for freshness. Additionally, many stores mark down items close to their sell-by date during these times, so keep an eye out for discounts on high-quality items. - The Importance of Meal Planning
Creating a meal plan before you shop is crucial. It ensures that you buy only what you need, reducing both cost and waste. Start by planning your meals around when you’ll shop, incorporating lots of fresh produce, lean proteins, and whole grains. Make a list based on your meal plan, and stick to it, resisting the temptation of impulse buys that tend to be less healthy. “Chicken is a versatile go-to option for you and the entire family. Whether it’s grilled, sautéed, braised, roasted, or heated up in an air fryer, Just Bare chicken is a perfect start to a nutritious and delicious meal.” Enhance your salad with our succulent Roasted Chicken Breast Bites or elevate your wholesome pasta dish with our flavorful Italian breast strips. Looking to have a BBQ with the family? Try our chicken breast fillets, tenderloins, and thighs for a delicious summer meal! - Inventory Your Pantry and Fridge First
Before heading out, take stock of what you already have. This can prevent overbuying and helps reduce food waste. Keep a running list of pantry staples on hand, and update it regularly as you use items, ensuring you always have the basics for healthy meals. - Organize Your Grocery List
Organizing your grocery list to mimic the layout of your favorite store can streamline your shopping trip and help keep you focused. Group items into categories like produce, dairy, meats, and grains. This approach not only saves time but also reduces the chances of wandering into the tempting inner aisles.
Conclusion
Remember to focus on shopping around the perimeter of the store. This can help you develop better eating habits in a natural way. Making smarter choices can lead to long-term health benefits such as weight loss, improved nutrition for you and your family, reduced risk of preventable medical conditions, and better mental health. Embracing this approach will likely lead to an improvement in how you feel and may even lower your grocery bills. You can start implementing some of these strategies today.
Try these strategies during your next grocery trip and share your experiences! Have you discovered new favorite foods or recipes? Let’s continue the conversation and inspire each other towards healthier habits. Check out our Where To Buy page to start planning your next shopping trip! For more recipes, tips, and ideas, click here.