Start Smart Grocery Shopping for Health

By Derek Huizinga, JumpStartEnergy.com

Ever wonder how you can shop a little better at the grocery store? Need more than just coupons and quick health advice? Here’s a quick list of ideas and techniques to create a healthier you through what your cart holds at the quickie mart:

Brain Food

Shop for foods that are high in antioxidants such as salmon, blueberries, and most fruits and vegetables in order to prevent common age diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Better Vision

Pick up a carton of eggs to protect your eyesight and provide plenty of choline…this will also empower your memory. Other foods to look for include spinach, orange bell peppers, and fruits with vitamins A, C, and E.

Softer, Healthier Skin

Foods high in vitamin D will help lower the risk of skin cancer. Look for milk, dairy products, shrimp, eggs, and other fish such as sardines (not my favorite) in this category.

Better Disease Protection

Foods that are low in saturated fats, and high in good fats (omega-3 fatty acids) and lean proteins help fight heart disease, cancer, and inflammation. Foods to check out are pork tenderloin, skinless chicken breast, extra-virgin olive oil, tuna, salmon, and most kinds of fish.

Stronger Bones

Again, vitamin D helps create stronger bones (see post) that you need for longer life. Calcium also contributes to bone health. Find vitamin D and calcium in milk, dairy products, and orange juice. Find vitamin K bone-building strength in broccoli, spinach, and romaine lettuces (all of which are excellent tasting).

These aren’t the only important foods to look for…additional feedback is appreciated. Looking for more health and nutritional advice? Looking for a supermarket tour? Check out David Modderman’s Health and Fitness Blog for more information…he’s a personal trainer that I work with who’s a specialist at this kind of stuff…happy shopping!