My Guide to Grocery Shopping: Good, Better, Best
When it comes to grocery shopping, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by labels, trends, and conflicting advice. My approach? Keep it simple, flexible, and focused on progress over perfection.
Start with produce? Read my guide to produce shopping here.
This Good, Better, Best framework helps you make more intentional choices at your own pace—whether you're just starting out or already prioritizing high-quality, local foods.
Good: Whole & Minimally Processed Foods
The foundation of nourishing your body starts with real, whole foods.
At this level, the goal is to shift away from ultra-processed and packaged products and instead focus on:
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Whole grains
Legumes
Fresh meat, fish, and poultry
Dairy and eggs with minimal ingredients
Pantry staples like olive oil, herbs, and nuts
Tip: If you do buy packaged foods, look for short ingredient lists with ingredients you recognize and can pronounce. This alone is a powerful shift for your health.
Better: Organic Where It Matters + Animal Product Quality
Once you’ve got the basics down, you can begin to upgrade the quality of your food.
At this stage, I recommend:
Following the Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen lists
Buy organic for the Dirty Dozen (highest in pesticide residues)
Be flexible with the Clean Fifteen (lowest in pesticide residues)
Choosing organic, grass-fed dairy and meats
Opting for pasture-raised eggs and poultry
Why does this matter?
Higher-quality animal products tend to contain more omega-3 fatty acids, better nutrient profiles, and fewer contaminants. And minimizing pesticide exposure in produce can support hormone health and long-term wellness.
Best: Shop Local, Support Local
If you’re ready to take your shopping habits to the next level, supporting local farms and food producers makes a huge impact—nutritionally and environmentally.
Here’s why shopping local is best:
Higher nutrient content – the shorter the time between harvest and consumption, the more nutrients your food retains
Fewer food miles – less transportation = lower environmental impact
Supports local farms and small businesses – keeps your community thriving
Seasonal eating – eating what’s in season is often more affordable, tastier, and in sync with your body’s natural rhythms
Look for:
Local farmer’s markets
CSA (community-supported agriculture) programs
Local honey, dairy, eggs, meats, and produce
Progress Over Perfection
I’ll be the first to say—I don’t shop “best” 100% of the time.
I personally do a mix of all three, depending on:
What’s available
What fits my budget that week
There’s no shame in doing what works for you. Each small shift adds up, and over time, you’ll find what feels sustainable and aligned with your values.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're shopping at a big-box store or a farmer’s market, this framework helps you shop more intentionally and with less stress.
Start with whole foods, upgrade to organic and better-quality animal products, and support your local food system.
Every bite is an opportunity to nourish your body.
Want more guidance like this? Book a free introductory call here to chat about your goals and explore how we can work together. I’d love to help you create a balanced, nourished lifestyle—your way.
