by Brian Lamacraft

Created on: January 22, 2009

There are several tips you can put to use when grocery shopping for weight loss. These tips are outlined below.

Spend most of your time in the produce section. Weight loss starts with fruit and vegetables. You need to purchase more produce then anything else when you shop. Fill up your cart with vegetable and fruit is a great way to start your weight loss. Look for items that are fresh and free of blemishes to get the most value for your money.

Go for whole grains. Avoid items such as white bread and buns. Pick whole grain breads and rolls. Look at the label and make sure you are getting whole grains. Look fro breads containing seeds as well this will give you some extra fiber. Brown bread packs much more nutrition and is much better for you then white bread. When buying cereal look for oatmeal or high fiber cereals and avoid the sugar ones.

Stock up on seeds and nuts. Unsalted nuts and seeds and the best choice. These can usually be found in the bulk food section. Avoid the nuts you find in the potato chip section. These nuts are packed with salt and additives. Watch how many you consume as they need to be eaten in moderation.

Read your labels on packaged goods. Avoid products high in fat, sugar and salt. Look for items that have a low amount of these three ingredients. Watch the calorie amount in the food as well. Take your time when reading the label and try several different brands.

Pick lean cuts of meat. Purchase lean meat cuts and stock up on fish. Avoid all the packaged meats such as chicken nuggets and strips. Buy lean hamburger and make your own burgers at home. Chicken breasts are a good choice to buy. Look for these in the larger boxes as they often go on sale. Ask the person at the counter for lean meat and they should be able to help you.

Avoid the candy and pop. These foods as we all know contain high levels of sugar, salt and fat.

Never shop when hungry. Never go shopping when you are hungry as this can lead to impulse buying. You are more likely to buy food that is quick and not as healthy for you when you are hungry.

Shop with a friend. If you are not sure about certain foods and the labels try to bring a friend along to help with your selection.

Your goal is to stock up on fresh food instead of packaged ones. Go for fresh produce, lean cuts of meat and fish, low-fat dairy and cheese, whole grain breads, and nuts and seeds. When you shop for whole food you are getting all the essential nutrients and vitamins your body needs to help you loose weight. Combine this with exercise and you are well on your way to a better body.

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