5 Strategies to Shop Healthier Online: Avoid Impulse Buys and Make Smart Choices

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Online grocery shopping offers convenience, but it can also lead to impulse buys that undermine healthy eating habits . By being more intentional, you can make better choices. Here are five strategies to help you shop healthier when using online grocery apps.


The Temptation of Impulse Buying

Impulse buying can easily disrupt your health goals, so it's important to distinguish between what you need and what you simply want.

Online grocery apps are designed to be user-friendly, visually appealing, and full of deals, which can make shopping very enjoyable. Many find it even more appealing than traditional grocery shopping. However, the ease of browsing deals and gourmet items can distract you from your health goals.


To stay on track, it's crucial to be deliberate about your selections.

Practical Tips for Healthier Online Grocery Shopping

Here are five practical tips to help you make healthier decisions each time you shop online.


1. Ask Yourself: Do I Want This or Need This?

One of the biggest challenges of online grocery shopping is impulse purchases. Are those peri-peri crisps or chocolate cookies really necessary?

Before you finalize your order, review your cart. Identify the difference between essential items like milk, eggs, flour, fruits, and vegetables, and non-essential treats like snacks, chocolates, and fizzy drinks. Taking a moment to think about your choices can help you avoid unnecessary indulgences and support your long-term health goals.

2. Always Check Nutrition Facts and Ingredients

Checking nutrition facts and ingredients is easier with grocery apps than it might be in a physical store.

Most products have a "Product Description" section that lists ingredients, nutritional information, and health tags.


Take the time to read this information, paying close attention to the sugar, sodium, and fat content. This simple action helps you make informed grocery choices and avoid overly processed or artificial foods.

3. Use Built-In Healthy Filters

One of the main benefits of online grocery shopping is the availability of filters.

If you're following a weight loss plan or a heart-healthy diet, use filters to find options that are low in fat, low in sodium, high in fiber, or organic. When buying oil, look for cold-pressed or extra virgin options. Even when shopping for cereals or snacks, filters like "no added sugar" can help you quickly find better choices.

4. Choose Apps That Encourage Healthy Shopping

Many online grocery platforms now encourage mindful eating habits.

Some apps offer healthier alternatives to items in your cart, nutritional rating systems, discounts on nutritious foods, pre-curated healthy shopping baskets, and AI-based suggestions tailored to your dietary needs.


Choose apps that prioritize wellness. These features make decision-making easier and guide you toward a healthier diet.

5. Be Aware of Product Placement and Marketing Tricks

Be mindful of product placement and marketing strategies.

Eye-catching banners and "mega sale" sections often highlight ultra-processed items that may not be good for your health. Just because a product is prominently displayed or labeled as a "bestseller" doesn't mean it's the healthiest choice.

Be aware of how products are presented and look beyond the highlighted items to find more nutritious options.