Have you ever gone to the grocery store with healthy intentions, only to realize later that you’ve brought home bags filled with borderline junk food? You are not alone. Many people don’t grocery shop the right and healthy way. There are several do’s and don’ts to follow if you want to makeover your health and it starts in the grocery store aisles!

Go to the grocery store alone

Sure, we all know not to go to the grocery store hungry. But regardless of the fullness factor, we tend to bring more junk food home when grocery shopping with a significant other or kids. You have a much better chance of sticking to your list if you go it alone. And less junk food in the house means less junk food in the belly.

Don’t spend a fortune on the latest and greatest superfoods trends

Some of the healthiest foods in the grocery store are the some of the cheapest. No need so buy the latest superfoods, simply travel to your local grocery and enjoy. Some of these items include yogurt, frozen blueberries, eggs, legumes like beans and lentils, brown rice, milk, peanut butter, tea and rolled oats.

Know the “whole” story

Marketers know that nutrition conscious shoppers are looking for whole grains in their products, but often times the outside of the package doesn’t tell you the whole story, pun intended. Don't be deceived into buying a product labeled "wheat bread," but rather look for the word “whole” as in "whole wheat" or "whole grain" bread, and make sure it is the first ingredient.

Shop the perimeter

What you will find in the inside aisles of the grocery store are often highly processed, high sugar, high sodium foods. Instead, try getting the bulk of your groceries from the perimeter. Think fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, greens, dairy, fish, meat, frozen fruits, and frozen vegetables. While it is next to impossible to skip the middle completely, try to limit your processed food choices.

Know that some nutrition claims are not regulated

There is an abundance of regulated nutrient content claims that you will notice on a box of food, and it is important to familiarize yourself with these terms. For example, in order for the terms “rich in” or an “excellent source” of a certain nutrient to appear on a package, it must contain 20 percent of the daily value for that nutrient. Or that the term “light” must have 1/3 fewer calories or 50 percent less fat the original. But one of the most common nutrition misconceptions is the term “natural.” This term natural is completely unregulated and manufacturers get to determine if their food came from a natural source at one time. Don’t be fooled by this overused, inaccurate and confusing term.

The grocery store can be a very confusing place. Especially when marketers continually try to make their product appear healthier than it actually is. But if you follow some of these healthy grocery shopping rules, shopping for healthy becomes much easier. Good luck and bon appetite!

But, if you're tried of running to the grocery store or buying your food on the go, try Seattle Sutton's Healthy Eating! Our meal plans are chocked full of fresh and healthy ingredients that will not only leave you feeling and looking great, but also save you time!