As the New Year approaches, many of us are eager to shed those extra holiday pounds and jump-start our weight loss journeys. With a pantry full of essentials, there’s no room for excuses when 2025 rolls in! Follow along as we dive into a shopping adventure, sharing the must-have foods that have helped us lose and keep off 130 lbs over the past decade. From Costco finds to Walmart treasures, we’ll explore the staples that not only aid in healthy eating but also make sticking to a nutrition plan enjoyable and sustainable. Whether you’re a seasoned weight-loss pro or just starting out, these culinary “Triple Threats” will ensure you’re set for success in the year ahead. Join us as we embark on a deliciously healthy grocery haul!
Refreshing Beverages
One of the first changes we’ve made to our diet is to include beverages that help us stay on track without adding empty calories. A firm favorite is the mixed pack of bubbly water, boasting flavors like strawberry, grapefruit, and lime. These delightful carbonated drinks offer zero calories, which makes them perfect for curbing that sneaky sweet tooth or filling the gap between meals. Having a tasty drink in hand can redirect our thoughts away from unnecessary snacking, making it easier to stay on course.
The Versatility of Bread
In our journey, we’ve also discovered the versatility and healthfulness of certain bread options. Dempster’s ancient grain tortillas are a constant in our kitchen. They provide the foundation for our almost-nightly ritual of low-calorie air-fried pizzas. Not only this, they serve as an excellent base for wraps and other creative meals. Our bread of choice is the Dempster’s 100% whole wheat, which we buy in three-packs. We utilize it for making sandwiches, French toast, regular toast, and pizza bread. These whole grain options keep us satisfied and excited about our meals.
Protein-Packed Choices
Proteins are a crucial part of our diet, and for us, the smoked Black Forest ham from Costco is unbeatable. Each serving, consisting of two slices, offers 12 grams of protein, which is quite an accomplishment for a mere 70 calories. This ham is as versatile as it is delicious—great for breakfast and a delightful topping for home-made pizza.
The Power of Fruits
Fruits, fresh or frozen, are another staple we swear by. Bananas in particular are a big hit in our house, especially after a subscriber suggested freezing them. This little trick has extended their shelf life, allowing us to enjoy bananas over a longer period while saving money. We mainly incorporate them in protein ice creams and yogurt bowls, ensuring a touch of natural sweetness to our desserts. When fresh fruit isn’t available, we turn to our trusty stockpile of frozen fruit. They are cost-effective, last much longer, and they prevent us from running out of fruity goodness for snacks and meals.
Greek Yogurt and Protein Powder
No grocery haul is complete without a discussion of yogurt. We love plain, fat-free Greek yogurt for its low-calorie, high-protein profile. We use it in everything—desserts, lunches, breakfasts, and baked goods. One of our favorite treats involves mixing protein powder into yogurt; it becomes a luscious, protein-packed dessert. Among our preferred protein powders is the fruity cereal flavor, which blends perfectly into yogurt, offering a taste reminiscent of sweet cereals.
Evening Snack Choices
Breakfast or a nighttime snack often features Honey Nut Cheerios, a cereal that—when paired with protein-infused milk—provides a satisfying crunch without guilt. This cereal partners wonderfully with Fairlife milk, a lactose-free milk that packs 14 grams of protein per cup. At only 80 calories, it’s our go-to milk choice not only for cereal but for protein pancakes and any other recipe calling for milk.
Lean Proteins and Fun Traditions
Continuing with protein, egg whites are a staple in our diet. We incorporate them into breakfast dishes and protein ice creams. Another protein favorite is Grims lean turkey pepperoni. Surprisingly, it tastes just like traditional pepperoni but with fewer calories—an exciting discovery for us.
Cucumbers often end our meals, turning into what we humorously call “Freddy fingers.” They’re fun, fresh, and always at the ready. It’s a quirky habit, but choosing particularly pointy cucumbers adds a light-hearted end to our shopping trips.
Pasta Sauces and Stocking Up
When it comes to pasta or pizza sauces, we’ve switched to using the Great Value garlic and herb pasta sauce. It’s an excellent alternative to pizza sauce, offering more versatility while saving a few pennies. Despite popular dieting myths, we don’t shun pasta; with the right portion and sauce, it remains an occasional, enjoyable part of our diet.
As we enter the New Year, one piece of advice we have is to stock up on these staple foods early. All the good-for-you items tend to fly off the shelves as everyone gears up for their resolutions. Buy a little extra to ensure you’re well-equipped for your weight loss journey.
Final Thoughts
Finally, remember that successful weight loss isn’t just about the numbers on a scale. It’s about making your journey enjoyable and sustainable with foods you love and can eat for life. Our weight loss and maintenance success come from finding a balance that works for our lifestyle. We hope sharing these tips and staples inspires your own healthy eating adventure in the New Year! Happy shopping and healthy eating!
