How do I choose healthy foods at the grocery store? If you are like most people, at some point you ask yourself this same question. There are some general guidelines that can help you make the right choices, but most important and helpful is being prepared.

Before going to the store, make out a menu for at least 3 days, too much can be overwhelming and too little you are running out to the store too often. If you are new to this or just starting a healthy eating program, planning your menu will help you and keep you on target.

Start with easy things you can prepare and try preparing meals that are close to what you are used to. For example, if you like having sandwiches for lunch, choose breads that have no high fructose corn syrup and if possible no sugar. Use only breads that have 100% whole wheat, read the labels though, many types of bread that say whole wheat aren't 100% whole wheat.

A good choice is in the frozen section, the sprouted breads, give them a try they are delicious. . Be careful, due to the lack of preservatives and added sugars and chemicals they will not last as long as most other breads.

Pick lean meat such as turkey or chicken. Best choice is to bake or grill your own to have on hand to put on the sandwich. Use a spread like humus and then add any vegetables on top. An easy choice is the bagged and washed salad or select things you like from the salad bar most stores have.

For breakfast, keep it simple but don't forget to eat it. Oatmeal is a great choice, it's healthy, low fat and filling. Try the quick cooking oats and prepare with soy or rice milk. You can add wheat germ, flax seed, fruit and nuts to increase the health benefits and taste.

Dinners can be whatever you like, try replacing white potatoes with baked sweet potatoes. Use brown rice instead of white rice, cooking with low sodium chicken or vegetable broth will add more flavor to it. Use beans and lentils with grains and skip the protein some nights, you will save money and it's healthy yet still providing a complete protein. When you are cooking with a protein, use only lean meats and try to get only organic meats, without the use of hormones and antibiotics.

Don't forget snacks either. Fruit and nuts are great snacks and healthy-try to get nuts that are raw and unsalted though.

If you are still not sure what to make and buy-try making a list of foods that are good for you and then from that list, make your menu that way. It may be easier.

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