Micro Activity: Navigating Supermarket Aisles - Making Better Choices
Watch the video where Michael Pollan and Michael Moss discuss the challenges of navigating supermarket aisles and choosing healthy foods amidst processed options.
Supermarket Aisle Challenge:
The next time you go grocery shopping (or even before you go), make a list of 3 healthy meal or snack ideas you can prepare for your shifts, based on the principles from the video. Focus on whole, minimally processed foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid processed, convenience foods that may offer short-term satisfaction but are low in nutritional value.
Navigating the Aisles:
As you shop, try to follow these strategies:
- Stick to the outer edges of the store where whole foods (produce, dairy, fresh meats) are typically located.
- Avoid the inner aisles with heavily processed foods and packaged snacks.
- When choosing packaged foods, check the ingredient list—aim for products with fewer, recognizable ingredients and avoid high sugar or chemical additives.
Meal Prep:
After shopping, spend some time prepping these meals for the upcoming week. This will help ensure that you’re making the best food choices during your shifts.
Reflection Questions:
Shopping Awareness:
After watching the video and completing your shopping trip, did you notice any habits or patterns in your food choices that align with the discussion in the video? Were you more aware of the aisles and products you chose?
Processed vs. Whole Foods:
How did you feel about navigating past the processed food aisles and focusing on whole foods? Did it feel more challenging than expected?
Impact on Your Shifts:
How do you think preparing your meals with fresh, whole foods will impact your performance and overall well-being during your shifts? What specific benefits are you hoping to see?