I don’t know about you, but for me; one of the hardest tasks involved with staying true to eating healthy is sticking to my shopping list...or knowing what to put on it. It’s so difficult to not peruse the aisles at the grocery store and just pick up whatever I happen to be craving, good for me or not. But, alas, sacrifices are necessary for success. So, I thought I’d help you out a little bit in case you have the same struggle. Here a few items you should always stock that can help you get started in achieving your goals this New Year— and a few that will help you to retain your sanity as well.

Running late for work or need some sustenance before hitting the gym? If you ever find yourself in that situation, stock up on some Oatmega and always have a healthy on-the-go option. They come in a variety of flavors, so you’re bound to find one that catches your eye. 

In lieu of sugary sodas that contribute so many unneeded calories to our diets, pick up some flavored sparkling water like LaCroix and get your bubbly fix without any of the unhealthy repercussions. And let’s be real, you’ll look really cool drinking it. 

Who doesn’t love something sweet after dinner or during your late-night Netflix binge? While cookie dough or ice cream may be your go-to sugary spoonable, Noosa Yoghurt is almost as delicious, but so much healthier. That way you can satisfy your craving without all the guilt (and bloat) later.

Oh, the vice grip that salty goodies like fries and potato chips have on us all. While not quite as satisfying or extremely addictive, substituting something like Blue Diamond almonds or kale chips and hummus is a healthy way to get your salty fix in without undermining your New Year’s goals. I know, it’s not the same. But have you ever tried kale chips!? They just might surprise ya.

Replace your Oreos and Girl Scout Cookies with something sweet, but much better for your diet. I tend to rely heavily on dates and Bark Thins (yum, chocolate!) when I need a snack to satisfy my sweet tooth.

I always keep things like lentils and quinoa on hand to bulk up meals in a healthy way. Think of these like healthy bread or pasta without all the carbs, plus lots of protein. They taste great, too—and they really come in handy when you’re running low on supplies. Just throw whatever veggies you have left in with some quinoa and you’ve got yourself a healthy, well-balanced meal. 

This is kind of a no-brainer, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t remind you that the most important building blocks of a healthy diet are fresh vegetables and fruit. Always have your favorites on hand to snack on raw or sauté with quinoa and lean meats.

When you’re buying cuts of meat or ground meats, always stick with leaner cuts and fat percentages like chicken breasts instead of thighs or 90/10 ground beef as opposed to 70/30.

I’m sure you’ve heard it enough growing up—breakfast is the most important meal of the day! I don’t need to remind you...but I’m going to anyway. Always, always eat breakfast, as it serves to kick start your digestive track for the day and gets your metabolism rolling. That’s important! I like to combine things like granola or steel cut oats with fresh seasonal fruit, yogurt, and honey for a delicious and healthy first meal of the day.

Use scrambled eggs as another high-protein filler in meals like hashes and rice dishes or add soft or hard-boiled eggs to salads for an extra protein-rich ingredient. The good thing about eggs is, there are so many ways to prepare them! So you can keep getting your delicious protein without getting burnt out.

 I love to keep a few Amy’s Organic bean and veggie bowls or light & lean meals on hand for quick and easy meals. Combine these with some leftover grilled chicken breasts from the other night and you’ve got yourself an effortless and nutritious dinner!

And remember, the longer you stick with this, the easier it is and the better you’ll feel! Don't let yourself get overwhelmed—getting started is the hardest part, but we believe in you.