Everyone has their weakness when it comes to losing weight. For some, it’s the lure of carbs or salty food. For others, it’s the sweet tooth that strikes at midnight.
Whatever you crave, the only way they can cause harm to your weight loss program is if you give in. So the time to be your strongest is when you’re loading your cart at the food store. Those late-night cravings won’t mean much if you don’t have those foods in the house. But when you’re walking down the aisle, avoiding all temptation is easier said than done.
Temptation is Everywhere
The go-to tip is: don’t food shop when you are hungry. Even if you go to the grocery store after eating, you’re still exposed a massive amount of choice and temptation. The reality is, food stores are actually designed to pull you off track. They want you to buy things that aren’t on your grocery list. Walking down each aisle means finding snacks you’ve never tried before or old favorites that bring back good feelings.
3 Tips to Manage Weight Loss While Food Shopping
Next time you head to the food store, go with a clear mind and strong will. Here are a few tips to help you bring the healthiest options home:
- Write a list and stick to it. Make your shopping list while you’re still at home. Plan out your meals for the week to keep you on track with your weight loss plan.
- Listen to music while you shop. Don’t be social at the food store. Think instead about your personal goals and take a little “you time” to stay focused and relaxed. Studies show that listening to music while food shopping reduces impulse buying.
- Pick your coupons after you write your shopping list. Coupons are as bad as impulse aisles or corner display. If you shape your shopping list around what is on sale there is no telling what you will come home with.
Coming up with a weight loss plan will only get you so far. You also need to put your plan into practice. Stay strong not only when you are hungry, but when you’re food shopping.
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