Top Ten Tips for Healthy Shopping

Here are some things I keep in mind when I go grocery shopping:

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 do keep frozen organic fruits on hand to make the boys smoothies in the winter or to use in muffins (blueberry for example). I stay as far away from canned food as possible!

Ocean raised fish is better than farmed

Farmed fish swims in its own feces; enough said --always buy wild

Choose real foods and avoid processed foods

Think fruits, veggies, chicken, fish, eggs

Avoid UFO's

Unidentified food objects --things with artificial, unpronounceable ingredients

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

Always buy organic for these dozen fruits and veggies

Apples, bell peppers (sweet), celery, cherries, grapes, lettuce, nectarines, peaches, pears, potatoes, spinach, strawberries

Local produce is often cheaper and fresher

A shorter trip to the store means fresh food and less fossil fuels used in transport

Purchase organic vegetables at a farmer's market

They're fresh, less expensive and it's a fun outing, plus it helps support local business

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!

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!

Posted on February 25, 2008 in activism by Elana
other entries you may like: Why Glass? or Carlo Petrini or Fun Raiser

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