We recently hosted a wellness webinar where participants learned about eating healthy and how to shop smarter to make life easier.
Creating a Balanced Basket
By now, you probably know the basics of healthy eating: more fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and less processed foods. Sounds easy right? Usually, it’s not as simple when you throw in work, taking care of the family, exercising, etc. Try these 6 tips to make eating healthier and shopping smarter easy.
1. Fill half your plate with fruits and veggies
Half of each meal should consist of fruits and vegetables. The rest should be healthy grains, a small amount of fat, and protein.
2. Eat the rainbow
Focus on eating a variety of colorful produce. This will help you get as many diverse nutrients as possible.
3. Create a grocery list based on food groups
Set yourself up for success at the store by first seeing what you already have at home. Then create a shopping list based on the main food groups – fruits, vegetables, protein, grains, and dairy.
4. Shop the perimeter
The perimeter of every store usually has the most natural, less-processed foods. If you stick to your list and the perimeter of the store, you’ll be shopping the healthiest options.
5. Prioritize protein
If you don’t have time for anything else, or you’re out to eat, prioritize getting some kind of protein along with your fruits and veggies.
6. Prep weekday meals and utilize leftovers
Minimize decisions and plan for a successful week by prepping your meals on Sunday or utilizing leftovers for lunch the next day.
Eating healthy is not always a priority, but it is extremely important for all functions of life. These tips simplify healthy eating and smart shopping, so you have more time for life. If you are interested in seeing the full wellness class, you can watch here. This class was created by UA Coordinated Program in Dietetics students Rachel Bedford, Courtney Elsie, and Brynne Martine and taught by Rachel Bedford.