Supermarkets tempt us at every turn, but these tips will keep your waist trimmer and your bank balance healthier
Overspending and gaining weight? Perhaps you’re tripping up when it comes to the weekly shop. Unwise choices can hinder our health and weight-loss goals, but we can’t take all the blame. One in five UK adults claim supermarkets cause them to go off-track, according to research by the Royal Society for Public Health and Slimming World. In fact, more than one in three of us impulse buy unhealthy products because they’re on offer. Fortunately, a few simple tricks can help. Stick to your diet and budget by following these rules…
1IGNORE THE ENDS OF AISLES
Offers like ‘3 for 2’ are usually on tempting foods such as pizza, chocolate and crisps. ‘These are placed prominently to encourage customers to pick them up,’ says nutritionist Kim Pearson.
2BE BUZZWORD AWARE
Don’t be fooled by labels that state things such as ‘natural’ or ‘healthy’. ‘Legislation is so lax in this area that these words are meaningless,’ warns health coach Suzy Glaskie. Instead, she recommends looking for descriptions, such as ‘grass-fed’ and ‘organic’.
3STAY WITHIN THE OUTER AREAS
‘This is where you’ll find fresh fruit and veg, minimally processed dairy products, such as plain, full-fat yogurt, fish, eggs and unprocessed meats,’ says Suzy. ‘Around 80% of highly processed produce is in the middle of the store, so steer clear.’
4TURN DOWN PAIRINGS
‘One of the worst tricks carried out by supermarkets is pairing foods within the aisle to encourage snacking – such as putting tortilla chips next to pots of salsa and soured cream,’ says nutritionist Hannah Richards. ‘These tactics leave your trolley full of things that neither you nor your gut need.’
5STOP THE STORE FROM INFLUENCING YOUR SENSES
‘We spend up to 29% more when supermarket music is lower than our heart rate,’ says consumer branding expert Martin Lindstrom. Gentler music slows us down, which makes us pick up more. Sound effects can sway us too. ‘According to neuromarketing experiments, the sound of a fizzy drink being poured into a glass of ice is one of the most craving-inducing sounds,’ says Martin. Put on earbuds and listen to your own playlist as you shop, and you’ll be more likely to stick to your shopping list.
6AVOID SHOPPING FOR SPECIALS
Some supermarkets, such as Aldi and Lidl, have dedicated aisles for ‘specials’. The
