grew up in Japansome homes The world’s oldest personI have been in love with traditional Japanese food since I was a child. My passion for clean and healthy eating inspired me to become a nutritionist.
My diet has always been based on nutritious, longevity fuel and environmentally friendly food. Now living in the US, I often buy groceries at local markets or organic farms. But when I want to save money Stock up When it comes to healthy food, I send my husband to do his favorite thing: take a solo trip to Costco.
Here are the Costco products I trust and can’t live without:
1. Extra firm tofu
2. Frozen edamame
Edamame is another must-have soy product in our house. At Costco, you can buy a bag of 12 individually wrapped 8-ounce servings.
This is my most recommended snack to friends and family. Simply microwave a bag for two minutes and enjoy it as a low-calorie, high-protein snack. Edamame too rich Rich in fiber, antioxidants and vitamin K.
3. Dried wolfberry
wolfberry It has been used as an ancient medicine in East Asia for thousands of years. I add them to many dishes such as miso soup, salads, jams, and chia seed pudding. They add natural sweetness and texture.
one The fourth cup of wolfberry Contains just 100 calories, 4 grams of protein and fiber, and 800 milligrams of potassium—more than in a banana.
4. Vegetables
Eating vegetables is really important! Only 1 in 10 U.S. adults experience it Minimum vegetable intake requirementsfive servings per day.
I often recommend doubling this number. Eating a variety of vegetables regularly makes my body feel clean and energized.
Costco offers a variety of organic vegetables. We always get mushroom samples, English cucumbers and pre-washed French beans. They make for easy weekday meal prep.
5. Fruit
Some of my favorite fruits are oranges, blueberries, bananas and blackberries.
I usually buy organic products because I like them Eat the skin Some fruits, such as kiwi and citrus, provide additional fiber and antioxidants. For many fruits, the peel actually contains more nutrients than the inside.
Avocados are a must-buy at Costco. I like to chop some into salads and mix them with lemon juice, walnuts, and my signature miso dressing.
My husband now uses avocado as a spread on his sandwiches instead of butter or cream cheese and he feels healthier!
6. Chicken Breast and Salmon
I don’t eat meat, but my dog ​​Genki and cat Happy need animal protein.
I’m not a fan of ultra-processed pet food, so I like to balance their diet with organic chicken breasts from Costco, frozen Atlantic salmon, some edamame, tofu, veggies, and a variety of legumes.
They loved it so much I can’t remember the last time they were sick.
7. Unsalted almond butter
Almond butter is rich in monounsaturated fat, vitamin E, magnesium and other essential minerals. Promote heart health.
I love using almond butter in place of oil or butter for baking and cooking. Just make sure to check the ingredients to make sure there is no added salt or sugar.
8. Canned sardines
Sardines are one of the most sustainable fish species. for each 3 oz servingyou’ll get 2 grams of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
This is my husband’s go-to “emergency” food because it’s so quick to prepare. Just sprinkle in some turmeric, black pepper and fresh (or ground ginger). Eat it with rice, whole wheat bread or noodles.
9. Matcha powder
Matcha is a natural medicinal drink That Has anti-cancer propertiesand can improve your blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
I used the one from Costco. Sencha Organic Everyday Matcha Powder for baking, chia pudding, or a casual everyday tea. It’s priced very well at only $19.99 for a 12-ounce bag, and I trust it because it comes from organic family tea gardens in Kagoshima, Japan.
Michiko Tomioka, MBA, RDN are certified nutritionists and longevity experts. Born and raised in Nara, Japan, she focuses on a plant-based diet. She has held nutrition positions at material recycling centers, charter schools, and food banks. Follow her on Instagram @michain_rd.
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