Eating well is necessary for seniors who want to maintain a good quality of life and manage health conditions. However, grocery shopping can be challenging for both seniors and their caretakers. With so many options, knowing which foods are healthy can be difficult. Learn how to make smarter decisions while shopping by discovering how to read nutrition labels, pick the best fresh produce, and avoid processed foods.
Nutrition Labels
One step to making healthy choices is understanding nutrition labels. These labels provide essential information about what is in the food. When reading labels, focus on serving size and calories, as nutritional information refers to a single serving. Know how much you're eating, and keep an eye on calorie count if managing weight or certain health conditions. Look for foods low in saturated fats, added sugars, and sodium, as these can contribute to heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
When comparing products, check the nutritional value of similar items to choose the healthier option. Products labeled "light" or "low-fat" often have less fat or sugar, but you should verify this on the label.
Choosing Fresh Produce
Fresh fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them critical components of a healthy diet. Eating fresh produce can help lower the risk of chronic diseases and aid digestion and weight management. Consider buying fruits and vegetables in season to save money and ensure better taste and freshness. Check local markets for what's currently available.
When selecting produce, look for items with bright colors and firm textures. Avoid any with bruises or soft spots, as these may indicate lower quality or nutritional value.
Avoiding Processed Foods
Processed foods are often convenient, but they are not the healthiest choices. These foods typically contain unhealthy fats, sodium, and added sugars. They may also contain preservatives and artificial ingredients that can harm health.
Instead of relying on processed foods, opt for healthier alternatives. For example, choose nuts or fresh fruit instead of sugary snacks. Consider cooking at home with fresh ingredients rather than purchasing packaged meals. To minimize processed food intake, focus on shopping in the outer aisles of the grocery store, where you can usually locate fresh foods. Prepare grocery lists in advance to avoid impulse purchases of processed goods.
Navigating Different Sections of the Store
Knowing what to look for in each section of the grocery store helps make healthy choices. In the produce section, prioritize fresh fruits and vegetables over canned or jarred options.
Opt for low-fat versions of milk, yogurt, and cheese. When shopping in the dairy and protein sections, choose lean proteins like chicken, turkey, or fish instead of red meat. In the grains and cereals aisle, select whole grains such as brown rice, whole wheat bread, and oatmeal. These have more fiber and nutrients than refined grains.
Don't overlook the frozen foods section. Look for frozen vegetables and fruits with no added sauces or sugars. They can be just as nutritious as fresh produce and are often more affordable and long-lasting.
Shop Smartly With the Assistance of Senior Helpers High Point
Shopping for healthy foods doesn't have to be complicated. You can make healthier choices at the grocery store by understanding nutrition labels, choosing fresh produce, and avoiding processed foods. Remember to check each section of the store for nutritious options. Make informed choices to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
If you or your loved ones need additional help with grocery shopping or making healthy lifestyle choices, contact us at Senior Helpers High Point. We offer personalized assistance in Randleman, Asheboro, Trinity, Pleasant Garden, and Thomasville. Supporting seniors in making healthy choices is our priority, and we're here to help you every step of the way.