Top Ten Tips for Healthy Shopping

1. Fresh is better than frozen, frozen is better than canned
   Fresh produce is full of nutrition and far tastier; for veggies, we eat what’s in season, I keep frozen organic fruits on hand to make the boys smoothies in the winter or to use in muffins (blueberry for example); I avoid canned food whenever possible
2. Ocean raised fish is better than farmed
   Farmed fish is often fed corn and antibiotics, so I buy wild
3. Choose real foods and avoid processed foods
   Think fruits, veggies, chicken, fish, eggs
4. Avoid UFO’s
   Unidentified food objects –things with artificial, unpronounceable ingredients
5. Shop on the outside aisles of the grocery store
   Fresh foods such as produce and meat are on the outer aisles of the store, junk food is on the center aisles
6. Always buy organic for these dozen fruits and veggies
   Apples, bell peppers (sweet), celery, cherries, grapes, lettuce, nectarines, peaches, pears, potatoes, spinach, strawberries
7. Local produce is often cheaper and fresher
   A shorter trip to the store means fresh food and less fossil fuels used in transport
8. Purchase organic vegetables at a farmers market
   They’re fresh, less expensive and it’s a fun outing, plus it helps support local business
9. Always have a green vegetable in your cart
   Kale, broccoli, sprouts, salad greens; if you can get it home, you’re one step closer to eating it
10. Buy in bulk and bring your own bags
    Buying in bulk avoids unnecessary packaging and is often far cheaper; many stores will give you a rebate if your BYOB (bring your own bags)

One last tip. Don’t go to the grocery store on an empty stomach! When I do this, I think I need everything and I end up buying things I don’t need.

Remember –it’s all about fresh, local and what’s in season!