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During the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been more fuss about grocery store runs than ever before. Will they have your items in stock? Can you a get a delivery spot? Do you need to wear a mask and gloves?
In all of the commotion, it’s easy to lose sight of another important question: what should and shouldn’t be placed in your cart? The focus on healthfulness and common sense can go out the window during these trying times as we look to comfort foods to help us through. But the CDC and other health experts strongly warn against this. In fact, proper nutrition is exactly what your immune system needs.
READ MORE: This Is The Worst Mistake You Can Make When Ordering Food For Delivery
We spoke to leading health experts about the items that absolutely should not be in your cart during this outbreak. Here they are:
Items You Don't Need
This seems obvious, but how many times during this crisis have you found yourself filling your cart with items you don't need or know how to use, simply because you feel the need to "stock up"? "There is no issue with being prepared, but if you don't need it, don't normally use it, or have no place to store it, don't buy it," health and wellness coach Linda Morgan of Motivation Nook tells us.
Unhealthy Items
With gyms closed and restrictions on being outdoors, the worst thing you can do is stock up on too many unhealthy treats, Linda tells us. "Ice cream, cookies, and candy might be ideal comfort food, but the calories quickly add up. Stick with fresh fruit and veggies to snack on instead." So true!
Sugary Snacks
While many of us are reaching for comfort options, health experts point out that sugar lowers your immune system. "Sugar has been found to inhibit your body’s ability to fight off pathogens for up to 5 hours after you consume it," Maria Marlowe, integrative nutrition health coach and author of "The Real Food Grocery Guide," tells us.
Also, don't forget to limit sugary options as dental offices are closed for the time being. "Consuming food and drinks that are high in sugar is never good for your health. It's not just bad for your heart, but also your teeth!" Max Harland, the CEO of Dentaly explains.
So, what should you do instead? "If you want something sweet, choose treats sweetened with stevia or monkfruit, which are 0 glycemic and won’t spike your blood sugar," Maria advises.
