In today’s world where there is a surplus of information available at your finger tips, even the most health conscious individual can have a difficult time deciding what food to buy at the grocery store. Not only are there a lot of products available, but there is also a ton of information or “misinformation” about what products are healthy for your lifestyle and body type. This is especially true for individuals trying to lose weight.
Today, more than one third of Americans are obese. Because of this, the weight loss industry is booming. Many companies have entered the grocery marketplace offering advice on what products are healthy and actually producing specialty products. The problem is that most of these companies charge a lot of money for their services or you have to attend meetings to get information.
However, there is a new trend emerging to help individuals and families gain knowledge about healthy eating and it is free. Did you know that supermarkets are now helping others lose weight through coaching and services? They are helping people and their families shop for better foods and get on the right path to healthy eating. Make your grocery store work for you!
What Services are Available?
There are a few ways that your grocery store may be able to help you and your family. First, many of them are now providing dieticians and nutritionists to provide expert advice. The Kroger chain is one of the biggest implementers of this strategy, and they provide dieticians by email and phone service for their customers. Their professionals are well-qualified and educated for the position, so customers will feel more comfortable. This is a key factor in choosing dietary help, so be sure to ask your store if their coaches or nutritionists/dieticians are educated and qualified. Their credentials are important.
Second, take advantage of stores that offer a Point System. Many grocery stores have established a point system, similar to the “Weight Watchers” program. Points are given to certain foods along with nutritional information. These points’ help you determine what foods to buy and eat for the week. Staying within a recommended range is easier than counting calories, fat, and sugar. Usually, these stores also provide daily and weekly menus to help plan according to this system.
In addition, grocery stores are also now offering data and medical centers that you can use to gather information about your health and even track important conditions. You can often find tools and equipment to check your blood pressure, weight, and heart rate if you want the quick stats that the doctor gives you during a physical. Knowing all of these stats can help you be more aware of the changes you may need to make in your diet and exercise routine.
It is important to learn what information is available so you can make informed healthy choices for you and your family. Take advantage of the services offered by your neighborhood grocery store. You might be surprised how innovative they have become in order to help you and your family to become healthier.
– Linda Ingham
As a mother of five, licensed attorney and fitness nut, Linda Ingham enjoys writing about many subjects, including law, gardening, health and fitness, child rearing and travel. Check out her articles at www.pathacross.com
