Life is fast, fast, fast. With the onslaught of information bombarding us on a daily basis, it’s important for your well-being to learn how to cull back what’s important and let the rest go. This strategy is particularly sage advice when it comes to navigating the supermarket aisles. The never-ending barrage of contradictory nutrition advice and the myriad food choices can make a trip to the supermarket a harrowing experience. Here are 5 back-to-basics nutrition tips that can help you stay ahead of the nutrition curve:

1. Plan ahead, have a list, know what you will be cooking for the week (yes, home cooking with healthy recipes is BEST—this simple strategy will save you time, money and pounds on the scale. And…don’t deviate from the list unless it’s for extra fruits and vegetables.
2. Never go to the grocery store ravenous. If you are super hungry you may not be as discerning in your healthy nutrition choices. If you are hungry, pick up a container of pre-cut fresh fruit and nibble on it while you shop.
3. Stick to the perimeter of the store—that’s where the fresh produce, lean meats/chicken/fish, and fat-free dairy is located. Only venture into the “aisles” to pick up low-sodium canned beans, low-sodium tomato products, whole grain breads, cereals and pasta (don’t forget the popcorn kernels), water-packed tuna, nut butters, olive and canola oil and vinegars.
4. Frozen foods: frozen fruit and vegetables are highly nutritious as well. Just be sure to go for the “single ingredient” frozen foods…for example, if you’re buying peas, the ingredient list should read “peas.”
5. Think fresh. Fresh food, food that has not been processed, is your best bet for good nutrition. Processed foods tend to be much higher in unhealthy additives such as salt, added sugar and bad fats.

In today’s world, we are constantly bombarded with Information regarding technology, medical findings, and current events. This can be overwhelming to say the least. However, when it comes to your nutrition, simple back-to-basics advice is the best approach to eating well and staying healthy. Eat at home often, make time to go to the supermarket regularly and purchase fresh, wholesome food.

To your health,
Dr. Janet