Grocery stores can often be a bit daunting…and distracting. It can be difficult to find healthy options with all those brightly colored package labels and a multitude of tempting foods at every corner.

 Here are just a few healthy staples that I often pick up that can add variety to your snacks and meals. Eating healthy does not mean you have to snack on celery sticks and bland frozen meals!

 **Keep in mind these are simply alternatives that you can try, not in any way guidelines or recommendations.

 Greek Yogurt:

 

 

How is it different than regular yogurt? Not only does it have a thick and creamy consistency, it is higher in protein (12-20g per serving). Thus, it keeps you fuller, longer and in my opinion, the texture is more satisfying. You can buy it sweetened or unsweetened and add in sugar, artificial sweetener and/or honey. You can even substitute the unsweetened Greek yogurt for sour cream!

Keep in mind:

 -The yogurt fat content varies by percentage. Look out for 0% and 2% on the label.

-Brands include: Fage, Chobani, Oikos, Skyr.is

 

 Hummus:

 

Hummus is a spread made from garbanzo beans (chic peas). Hummus has a high protein and fiber content, making it a good choice to use as a dip or spread on sandwiches. Look out for packaged hummus (above), fresh hummus, or make it at home!

 

Bagged Lettuce:

 

Don’t have time to make a salad? Get pre-washed bagged lettuce! It is pricier than buying, washing, and cutting lettuce heads, but it won’t cost you more than the price of a hamburger! Just chop up some of your favorite veggies and chicken strips (or tofu) and toss them in to the bowl. 

 

Nut Butters:

 

 

Nut butters are a bit more calorie and fat-dense, but do not let that deter you.  Nut butters are highly nutritious and satisfying. They are high in fiber and protein as well as a multitude of vitamins and minerals.

One caveat, you just have to make sure that’s all that is in the jar!

Grinding your own nut butter is a good way to ensure the only ingredient is nuts!

 

Non-Dairy Milk (Soy, Almond)

For those of you that are lactose intolerant or simply do not prefer cow’s milk, give soy milk or almond milk a try. It’s a great way to get the calcium your body needs as well as some good ol’ protein. Note: cow’s milk is perfectly fine, too! 

 

 

The Bulk Section:

The bulk section is good for portion control. If there is something you want to eat but don’t want to purchase a whole box, see if it’s in the bulk section! You can get what you want and only pay for the amount you want. After you finish the portion—there won’t be anymore left. Stick with nuts and seeds for healthy options. Bulk sections are common in specialty grocery stores such as Whole Foods Market and The Fresh Market. 

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