Long-standing grocery store advice to “shop around and avoid center aisles” to buy the healthiest foods is somewhat outdated and can lead to shoppers ignoring nutritious foods. Even sex, two nutritionists told FOX News Digital.
Lauren Manaker, a registered dietitian based in Charleston, South Carolina, says the advice to only buy items on the periphery or in the corner of the grocery store is “a little outdated as a one-size-fits-all rule.”
“The idea comes from the fact that fresh produce, dairy and meat are typically found at the end of the grocery store,” she said.
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“But this approach misses out on a ton of nutritious, convenient, and affordable options in the center aisle.”
For example, people who only “shop around” will miss nutritious foods such as “canned tuna, frozen fruit, and whole quinoa,” Manaker said.
Fresh and unprocessed foods are typically found at the edges of grocery stores, but healthy options can also be found in the middle aisles, a nutritionist (not pictured) told FOX News Digital. (St. Petersburg)
“These foods are nutrient-dense, have a long shelf life, and are incredibly versatile in cooking,” she added.
Dr. Phyllis Povey, a board-certified physician who specializes in genetic weight loss, echoed similar sentiments to Fox News Digital. Pobee is the founder of GeneLean360°, a Toronto-based weight loss and health consulting company.
“Turn your grocery shopping into a powerful tool to maintain and improve your health.”
She shared some tips for making the most of your trip to the grocery store. These include planning your meals before you make your list, incorporating whole foods over processed foods, and considering adding “superfoods” to your diet.
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“Traditional advice to shop at the border is useful, but integrating these personalized strategies based on genetic insights and a deep understanding of food labels can help make grocery shopping healthier. It can be turned into a powerful tool for promotion,” she said.
Eating whole foods means “filling your cart with fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins,” Povey says.
We have the wisdom to look for “locally produced foods that are as seasonal as possible.'' (St. Petersburg)
“Even if these items are scattered throughout the store, look for them to ensure a nutritious meal,” she said.
Povey also suggested the wisdom of looking for “seasonal, local produce whenever possible.”
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“These ingredients are often more nutritious and fresher than out-of-season ingredients that have to be transported long distances and are typically treated with preservatives,” she says.
Mr Manaker suggested that shoppers should take a more holistic approach, rather than just adhering to advice such as 'shop around'.
Experts say people who shop “on the periphery” at the grocery store will miss nutritious foods like canned tuna. (St. Petersburg)
“Smarter shopping is all about reading labels and understanding what's best for your health goals, lifestyle, and budget,” she said.
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You should aim to “look for options high in essential nutrients like fiber, protein and healthy fats, while being mindful of added sugar and sodium content,” she says.
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“And don't forget to explore the center aisle,” she said.
These include “healthy staples like beans, whole grains, and nuts, as well as great frozen or canned options that make it easy to eat a balanced diet.”
