As the New Year approaches, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the indulgences of the holiday season and setting goals to start fresh with healthier habits. If you’re like us, you’ve probably enjoyed a few too many festive treats and are now ready to get back on track. That’s why we’ve stocked up on the essential groceries that will help us reboot our wellness journey. Join us as we share our top picks from a recent Costco and Walmart haul, featuring versatile, low-calorie staples that have supported our significant weight loss and maintained our progress for over a decade. From protein-packed snacks to satisfying low-calorie treats, these items are the “triple threat” we always keep on hand to ensure a successful start to the New Year. Let’s dive in and explore these must-have grocery picks that will fuel our healthy lifestyle goals in 2025 and beyond!
Bubbly and Bread Staples
To kick off the New Year with a successful weight loss journey, having the right staples in your pantry and fridge is key. Our recent grocery haul from Costco was carefully curated with versatile, low-calorie foods to help us stay on track without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.
First on our list is a favorite: Bubbly water. This mixed pack includes strawberry, grapefruit, and lime flavors. We love Bubbly for its zero-calorie content and its ability to curb our sweet cravings. The fruity flavors make it a perfect choice to enjoy post-meal, helping keep the hunger pangs at bay.
Next, we have Dempster’s ancient grain tortillas. These are fantastic for making low-calorie pizzas or wraps. Their versatility makes them a staple in our household. Additionally, whole wheat bread is another must-have, as it can be transformed into sandwiches, French toast, or even pizza bread. These bread options are a delightful, filling choice that keeps us committed to our healthy eating plan.
Protein and Produce Picks
Our protein source of choice is Costco’s Kirkland smoked Black Forest ham. With 12 grams of protein per two slices at only 70 calories, it’s an optimal low-calorie protein source, perfect for breakfast or as a pizza topping.
Bananas are another versatile item on our list, which we use in protein ice creams and yogurt bowls. A subscriber shared a great tip with us: slice and freeze bananas to enhance their shelf life and reduce food waste. This allows us to enjoy them anytime and saves money in the long run. Similarly, frozen fruit is a great alternative to fresh, as it’s budget-friendly and lasts longer. Our favorites include blueberries and whole strawberries, which are ready to be thawed for various dishes.
Dairy Delights and Snack Choices
When it comes to dairy, Greek yogurt is our go-to. We stock up on plain, fat-free Greek yogurt due to its flexibility in making desserts, lunches, and breakfast items. By adding protein powder to it, we create a delicious high-protein dessert, and use it as a base for various creations, including yogurt bowls topped with cereal.
Speaking of which, Honey Nut Cheerios have become a nightly treat for us. Their whole grain content and great calorie-to-portion ratio make them an excellent carbohydrate choice. Paired with Fairlife’s 0% milk, which boasts 14 grams of protein per cup, it’s a filling evening snack. Importantly, this milk is lactose-free, making it a friendly option for those with lactose sensitivity.
Flavor Enhancements and Beverages
To add flavor and variety, we keep Grims lean turkey pepperoni in stock. They offer six grams of protein in a 50-calorie stick, proving to be a tasty, low-calorie snack that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s a delightful addition to pizzas or as a snack on its own.
Last but not least, having a variety of sauces enhances meal options. The garlic and herb pasta sauce from Great Value doubles as pizza sauce, giving us flexibility in our meal prep without extra spending. It’s part of our strategy to maintain a diverse palate while managing calorie intake.
To accompany our meals, we also enjoy fancy drinks. Quitting caffeine led us to caffeine-free soda options like cranberry ginger ale, which are satisfying low-calorie options to enjoy with meals.
Conclusion: Planning for Success
This grocery haul represents the foundations of our long-term weight maintenance strategy, which has helped us lose and keep off over 130 pounds for a decade. The focus is always on selecting flavorsome, low-calorie foods that we enjoy and can incorporate into our daily routine.
As a tip for kicking off your weight loss journey in January, stock up on your favorites and buy more than you might typically need. With many people adopting healthier habits, these popular items might run out quickly.
By investing in versatile, enjoyable staples, you’ll not only start strong but set up the framework for sustainable lifestyle changes that last well beyond the New Year. Here’s to a delicious and healthy new year!
