Fitness coach Sam Slack has shared the four types of items he always adds to his Lidl basket to help him stay on track with his healthy eating plan and avoid reaching for processed junk food. He visits the supermarket about two or three times a week to keep his cupboards and fridge well stocked, explaining that "fresh fruit does go off really quickly".
Grass-fed steak and mince
Speaking about his preferred choice of supermarket, Slack said: "Lidl has some really good grass-fed beef and steak." He outlined four categories of products he prefers to have in his basket, stressing that it represents just "some stuff" he uses to sustain himself.
"So we've got some grass-fed sirloin steak, we've got grass-fed rump, and we have grass-fed rib-eye," he shared, noting that he doesn't always buy sirloin or rib-eye; it's just "maybe once a week". He also gets grass-fed beef mince, opting for 5% fat, though he noted you can get 10 or 20%.
Eggs and fresh fruit
"Every now and again, I will get some organic eggs," Slack said. "I do get farm-fresh eggs, but if you can't get them from the farm, then these Purely Organics are pretty good."
Next in his shopping haul came avocados and pineapple, which he described as "great". He also grabbed raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries, noting he tries to "get organic, but not always". Slack then shared some practical wisdom, saying: "Do what you can do. You don't have to be perfect. It's what works for you."
He subsequently disclosed the remainder of his shopping haul, adding: "We've got some kiwi, some mango and banana... If you don't have fresh fruit in the house, you'll snack on processed junk." Slack also said he prefers to shop himself rather than getting it delivered, so he can pick fruit and meat with a good use-by date.
What is a balanced diet?
According to the NHS website, The Eatwell Guide shows that for a healthy, balanced diet, people should aim to eat at least five portions of a variety of fruits and vegetables every day, base meals on higher fibre starchy foods like potatoes, bread, rice or pasta, and have some dairy or dairy alternatives such as soya drinks. The guide also recommends eating beans, pulses, fish, eggs, meat and other protein, choosing unsaturated oils and spreads in small amounts, and drinking plenty of fluids (at least 6 to 8 glasses a day). Foods and drinks high in fat, salt and sugar should be consumed less frequently and in smaller quantities. If you're having difficulties with your diet, the NHS advises arranging an appointment with your GP, who can help.
