A Nutritionist's Grocery Shopping Tips For A Healthier You

Are you feeling overwhelmed about where to start on your journey to eating healthy? You're not alone! With so much information out there, it's easy to get confused. At Naked Harvest, we often receive this question, and we understand the importance of making informed choices. In this guide, we'll provide you with practical and achievable steps to embark on a healthier eating path, reaping not only the obvious benefits of increased energy and maintaining a healthy weight, but also preventing potential health issues ranging from hormonal imbalances to more serious diseases.

Start with Small, Sustainable Changes

To start eating healthy, it's best to focus on small, sustainable changes rather than attempting a complete dietary overhaul overnight. Begin by auditing your vegetable intake and add one extra serving of veggies each day for the next two weeks. If you struggle to meet your daily serving of vegetables, consider opting for a greens powder like our Gorgeous Greens blend. One serving is equivalent to one serve of veggies & tastes like your favourite tropical fruits! Gradually work your way up to the recommended five servings daily. Similarly, increase your daily water intake by adding one extra cup of water per day until you reach two litres. Look for opportunities to make healthier swaps in your meals, such as opting for whole-grain pasta over regular pasta in your favourite carbonara recipe.

Shop Smart on the Perimeter of the Supermarket

To avoid falling into the trap of processed and unhealthy foods, stick to the outer aisles of the supermarket during your shopping trips. The inner aisles often contain packaged and processed products high in sugars, refined flours, preservatives, and artificial additives. By focusing on fresh produce, lean meats, dairy products, and eggs found on the outer perimeters, you'll naturally steer clear of these less nutritious options.

Embrace Home Cooking

Cooking at home allows you to take full control of the ingredients in your meals, ensuring that you make healthier choices. While pre-made meals might be convenient, they don't offer the same nutritional benefits as homemade dishes. Start by cooking one additional meal at home per week or try creating your healthy versions of favourite takeout dishes. Not only does cooking improve your diet, but it's also an excellent way to bond with friends and family.

Plan Your Meals and Snacks

Planning is crucial to maintaining a healthy eating routine. When you have healthy meals prepared, you're less likely to resort to unhealthy takeout options. Create a weekly menu and shopping list, focusing on a variety of colourful fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. If planning full meals seems overwhelming, start by preparing some healthy snacks like homemade banana muffins, chia puddings, veggie sticks with dip, fruit with nut butter, or protein-packed smoothies with berries.

Eating healthy should be an enjoyable and sustainable lifestyle, not a daunting challenge. Remember that occasional indulgence is perfectly fine as long as you maintain balance and moderation. By starting with small changes and gradually incorporating healthier habits, you'll create a long-lasting positive impact on your wellbeing. Congratulations, you've taken the first step toward a healthier you just by reading this blog!