Meal replacements can make weight loss much simpler, but you can’t rely on them forever. Once your meal replacement program ends, it’s time to return to the world of normal foods. That means cooking healthy, nutritious meals that help you maintain the progress you’ve made in your weight loss program.
Every healthy meal starts with healthy ingredients. But most supermarkets are filled with as many tempting treats as they are with fresh and nutritious foods. To keep the good stuff in and the bad stuff out, you’ll need to learn how to make the most of your trips to the grocery store.
Make a List (and Stick to It)
You may already write a list of necessities before heading to the grocery store. But the problem usually doesn’t come from what you plan to buy—it comes from the impulse buy. Make it easier to buy only what you need by refusing to pick up anything outside the confines of your list. Plan your meals for the week and write down every ingredient you’ll need to cook. Buy only what you write down.
Stay on the Outer Edge of the Grocery Store
The freshest foods tend to be the healthiest foods. In most stores, the perimeter is home to the produce, dairy, and meat section. And this is where the bulk of your purchases should come from. Make sure your cart contains fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid the inner aisles of the supermarket where processed, prepackaged items are found.
Shop on a Full Stomach
When you go grocery shopping on an empty stomach, everything seems delicious. As a result, you may buy a few things that would be better left out of your diet. Try eating a snack before you shop to keep you from picking up free samples and other temptations. It can help keep your decisions focused on nutrition, not hunger.
Order Your Ingredients Online
Everything is done online these days. Check to see if your local grocery stock offers a delivery service. This not only removes the risk of being exposed to tempting treats but also takes the stress out of your busy day. Whole Foods Market has a free delivery and pickup service.
Once you’ve reached your weight loss goals, the grocery store can be either your greatest ally or worst enemy. Tips like these can help you keep it the former.
This is How You Lose the Weight, Once and For All
If you’re ready to say goodbye to quick fixes that never last? And you’re serious about losing the weight for good? We’re the experts you can trust to guide you through a weight loss program that will not only take the weight off but keep it off.
Schedule a consultation with us today.