Last year, in 2020, the world got introduced to a massive health crisis situation. And taking the world by storm, the COVID-19 pandemic created havoc, leading to which the world economy was slashed. Besides industries crucially getting impacted due to the pandemic, what remained the key focus was to consume enough nutrients so that the body achieves the kind of immune system that is enough to fight against the disease.
But the world had something else written for the creatures of it. So, the last thing that came as the key measure was global lockdown. With that, the meaning of social distancing, stay-at-home protections, and COVID-19 protection gear got redefined! Now, these definitions are pretty much normal in every individual’s dictionary. And 2020 was lived that way! Cut to the New Year; people were hopeful about the virus leaving the world.
A better tomorrow was the last hope people had. But here also, fortune’s wheel taught a different story! As the second strain is going to affect people even more, this time, everyone’s ready to take proper precautions beforehand. This is where stocking these essential products from a health food store becomes predominant. Let’s check them one by one without further delay!
#1 Dried Beans & Lentils
Dried beans & lentils are shelf-stable foods. Coming to the shelf-stable” term, it refers to the foods that get stored at room temperature for an extended period right they get rotten. Although stocking lentils and beans lead to the degradation of some nutrients, there are studies indicating that beans will stay edible for around ten or even more years.
As a matter of fact, lentils and beans happen to be high in antioxidants, fiber, minerals, as well as vitamins. So, all in all, it makes them healthy as a health-based shopping option! In fact, they even can get added to several dishes, including curries, soups, salads, as well as stews.
#2 Frozen Berries
It’s true that during crucial times, spending too much on foods like berries may be expensive. But there’s no denying the fact that berries are rich when it comes down to their nutritional value. As a matter of fact, they can also get purchased in bulk, so less expensive. So, whenever you visit the nearest natural food stores, you should consider including this product in your basket.
#3 Frozen Meat
There’s no better way to stocking meat over a longer timeframe than freezing them. So, the next time you visit the store, be careful to wear a mask and take the essentials, including frozen meat. Thinking that meat is a mere way of spending too much money is a sheer myth. After all, in the pandemic-raging world, meat has become key food product. On the other hand, freezing the protein sources after the immediate purchase will extend the usability such that you do not require running to the store each time you want the meat for the recipe. Remember, visiting the store at a frequent pace at this time is not at all safe either!
#4 Dried Fruits
Another food essential that you require including in your list is the dried fruits. Choose the health food store near me that offers the same. Dried fruits such as cranberries, apricots, and mangos, can get stored for the next six months. And after opening, you can store them in your refrigerator. This way, it will allow them to last for the next six months. The only thing is that you need to ensure that they are high in sugar and calories than fresh fruit. They must be eaten in a smaller amount. So, choose the unsweetened dried fruit in order to limit the added sugar consumption.
#5 Whole Grains
Some whole grains like quinoa, amaranth, and wild rice have long shelf lives. And these grains make amazing additions to the meal, as they provide a hearty fiber source, besides antioxidants, vitamins, and even the powerful plant compounds that benefit your health. One more reason why you need to stock up the whole grains is the fact that they are versatile amongst other ingredients. In addition, they can even get added to the lunch, breakfast, snacks, and even dinner.
#6 Coconut Oil
You need to understand that there are multiple fats that cannot get stored for a long-term plan. The reason is maybe due to an increased risk of oxidation that can even lead to spoilage. Nonetheless, coconut oil comes with a longer shelf life. As a matter of fact, it’s more resistant to oxidation than vegetable oils. In addition to this, the unrefined virgin coconut oil has powerful antioxidants. These are thought to aid in the protection of the oil from any spoilage. However, storage times vary depending on the light exposure as well as temperature. In general, coconut oil also gets used for cooking, skincare treatments, and baking.
#7 Vitamin Supplements and Other Essential Supplements
Do you know the importance of supplements during this point when the COVID-1 pandemic is affecting more lives, leading to an increased mortality rate worldwide? Even doctors are now suggesting vitamin tablets on a regular basis. But besides vitamin capsules and tablets, you also need to consider choosing other essential products to supplement with them in your regular diet regimen. Even if you choose an online organic food store, ensure that you go through their supplements. Choose the right form of supplements to stay fit and healthy during the pandemic. Also, consider consulting a medical professional before you opt for the product. This way, you will be able to take care of your health accordingly.
The Last Call
The aforementioned products can get stored in your freezer, fridge, or pantry very easily. But buying perishable products such as might be an intimidating decision now. This is why stocking up on the non-perishable items will ensure having the right ingredients available in your house to make delicious and healthy meals or snacks, despite following the COVID-19 measures.
