» It’s important to bring your grocery list with you to keep you on track. Failing to plan often results in purchasing many things you don’t need or actually intend to eat… like that 2 lb. container of spinach that you swear you’re going to eat every time.
» Our grocery list template that you have previously downloaded will get you thinking about your food in terms of macronutrients which means carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to guide your food selection. You should have a protein source with each meal. The amounts of fat and carbohydrates will vary, but foods should be fresh whenever possible. With this in mind, simply picking 2 (or more, if you’re an overachiever) items from each category and figuring out what to put in your meal prep containers becomes incredibly simple, though the possible varieties are limitless. Using this healthy grocery list keeps meal prep simple.
Tip #2 - Shop on a full stomach.
» Heading into the grocery store hungry can be like going in without a list. You’re going to buy stuff you don’t need. We are less inclined to make the best food choices when we’re hungry.Avoid the lure of the brightly colored aisles in the center and focus your shopping around the perimeter of the store, where the fresh, non- packaged items are.If buying boxed items: avoid anything you can’t pronounce; especially sugars with chemical names with “-ose” and “-os” attached as the suffix.
Tip #3 - Buy fruit a few days before it is fully ripe.
» Buy frozen foods to keep on hand, for when you run out of fresh ones. Keep canned veggies, proteins, and beans on hand. Buying canned foods is an inexpensive and convenient way to ensure that you always have enough protein, veggies, etc. at home, especially if you need to prepare something in a pinch. It also allows those people on tight budgets to get nutrients that they would not be able to otherwise. If you get yogurt, buy it plain and just dress it up at home. Make sure you always have proteins and veggies in your freezer. Like most things, being prepared is key when it comes to eating healthy. Having the right food on hand will ensure that you can avoid shortcuts and temptation. Doing the right thing early means the easy thing is healthy later.
» You will need something reliable and durable, like our ISOBAG, so that you can be sure that your meals stay fresh throughout the day. A small purchase like this will motivate you to keep at it when you first get started. You also don’t want to get too adventurous right off the bat. Begin by prepping meals you know you enjoy and are simple to make. This will ensure that you don't get off track while your habits are changing.