Navigating the grocery store can be a stressful event if you don’t know where to start. Many myths are circulating and it can be hard to decipher truth from misinformation. Influencers and famous people deliver messages daily about the “healthiest” food options and what products will prosper weight loss. It can be frustrating to follow their advice and not see the results. Wanting a healthy life is something to strive for but getting there is the challenge.  

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It is time to get back to the basics of health and how to find foods that will fuel your day and promote a better life.  

 

Debunking the grocery store myths:

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1. Shop the perimeter of the store: Sure, the produce section normally is on the outskirts of the store, but within the aisles, you will find the canned goods and the freezer section. Canned and frozen fruit and vegetables contain the same nutrients or even more because they are picked at ripeness. Not to mention they are also cheaper and have a longer shelf life than fresh produce.

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2. “Organic” means healthy: Research shows that organic food is not superior to non-organic food. Both can be broken down into the same nutrients. Also, just because it is organic does not mean it is pesticide-free.

 

3. Canned foods are high in sodium and extra sugar: This is somewhat true. Depending on how the item was packaged, sodium and sugar are elevated. However, that does not mean we have to buy those items or make them work if that is all that is available. Try to look for low sodium on the package or drain and rinse the food before using them to cook. Also, for fruit, opt for packaging in fruit juice instead of heavy syrup. Again, you can always drain the container before eating.   

 

4. Name-brand food is better than store brand: Some grocery stores have excellent versions of packaged foods that we love. Save some money and try out the store brand.

 

5. ​Low-fat foods are healthier: Before grabbing the low-fat item over the regular item, double-check the food label and take a look at calories, sugar, and sodium levels. During processing, to reduce fat content other ingredients are added to make the food taste good. It may be lower fat, but it may not be better over for your health.