It is very simple to shop healthy. In the right store, it can easily be done in less than a half-hour with some very basic principles. While I am a big supporter of organic foods and eating seasonally and locally, I think it is incorrect to say America can't improve its health dramatically by shopping for non-organic whole food in the basic grocery store. To improve health, you have to first stop eating processed foods that are no good and harmful to your body, and in turn eat quality foods that are good for you.
Principles of Grocery Shopping in the Fast Lane
1. Shop the outside, or "perimeter," of the grocery store where the whole, unprocessed foods are (fruit, vegetables, lean meats, etc.).
2. Eat whole/unprocessed/raw foods only (organic if possible). Buy the basics: vegetables (raw/frozen); fruit (raw/frozen); raw nuts and seeds; beans (packaged/sprouted); whole grains and sprouted whole grain (try non-glutinous whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, millet, amaranth, buckwheat); water, mineral water, teas, and 100% real fruit juice.
3. If you buy oils, get extra-virgin olive oil and/or coconut oil for cooking (we recommend cooking in medium heat) and ground flaxseed or cold-pressed vegetable oils for salads and for cold sauces. Keep oils to a minimum.
