When I worked as a Nutritionist at a wellness center, I had so much fun turning complex dietetic concepts into nutrition programs that helped our clients modify their daily habits. The supermarket tour for example, was my favorite way to educate our clients because I took them out of a clinic setting and taught them about nutrition in the real world.
I would meet the client at their local supermarket and walk them through what a healthy shopping trip looks like, aisle-by-aisle.
There are so many choices in the supermarket that it can be hard to know if you are choosing the healthiest options. So supermarket tours are a fun, interactive, and hands-on way to share brand favorites, introduce clients to new foods and teach them shopping tips to simplify their lives.
For 90 minutes, we would walk through all aisles discussing label reading, reading ingredient lists, incorporating diversity and making suggestions based on the client’s unique needs.
For example; To help a diabetic client navigate the bread aisle with confidence, we would review the different types of bread available. From whole grain breads such as whole wheat, rye, sprouted breads, and organic whole grain varieties that are rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein compared to refined, processed options, like white bread.
With the many options to choose from, you can certainly get lost in the bread aisle so having an understanding of what you should look for and what to avoid can help you make better choices.
Supermarket tours also help you survive the sneaky psychology of supermarkets. You see, every feature of a supermarket—from floor plan and shelf layout to lighting, music, and ladies in aprons offering free foods on sticks—is designed to lure us in, keep us there, and seduce us into spending money.
For example; supermarkets display fruits and vegetables so that they catch the viewer's eye as soon as they enter the store. The natural imagery, fresh scents, and brights colors inspire a positive and happy mental state in shoppers.
How does your visit to the supermarket look like? How long do you take? Do you go in with a plan or are you more of an impulse buyer? Which aisle do you spend the most time in and which do you avoid because this speaks volumes about your nutrition habits.
Reviewing your experience at the supermarket with a professional is a great step for anyone looking to modify their lifestyle.
And remember, stay safe as you shop.
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