Costco is one of the most popular grocery stores, and it’s for a reason, as you can stock up on some good, nutritious groceries.
Because the massive retail chain has so many options out there, it can be overwhelming as to which healthy options you should take home and which ones you should skip. Before you begin filling your cart with too many items, we spoke with a registered dietitian about four of her “favorite” Costco finds, and two she thinks you should avoid putting in your cart for a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Read more about what she had to say below.
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1. Oikos Triple Zero Yogurts
If you're trying to prioritize getting in more protein this year, which can keep you fuller longer and assist in building and repairing muscle, then these yogurts are a great Costco pick to stock up on. They're nice for lunch boxes, being on the go, or a protein-packed mid-day snack.
"Greek yogurt is a convenient, high-protein option that supports satiety and muscle recovery," says registered dietitian Kathleen Benson, CSSD, CPT, RDN at VNutrition. "Oikos Triple Zero is lower in fat and works well as a lighter snack or pre-workout option, while full-fat Greek yogurt can be more satisfying when you want something heartier, especially when paired with fruit."
2. Ahi Wild Yellowfin Tuna Steaks
A classic example of an efficient and affordable source of protein and nutrients is canned tuna, which can be used in a wide variety of recipes at home. Whether you're making a sushi-inspired tuna bowl with rice and veggies, or a classic, high-protein tuna salad, it never hurts to have the canned fish on hand at home.
"Safe Catch tuna is a high-quality protein option that is tested for mercury with more strict limits than standard industry practices," adds Benson. "It's an easy, no-prep protein to keep on hand for quick lunches or simple meals when you don't feel like cooking."
3. Nurri Ultra-Filtered Strawberry Milk Shake
Are you tired of having the same protein shake every day? Wish you had something that tasted a little closer to an actual milkshake? Then Benson suggests you try out the Nurri Ultra-Filtered shakes, which come in cans and a variety of flavors, like strawberry. Additionally, they can be a little easier to drink for those with slight dairy sensitivities.
"These protein drinks are made with ultra-filtered milk, which increases protein content while keeping them easy to digest for many people," she explains. "They're a convenient, portable option, and the strawberry flavor is a great choice if you enjoy flavored milk and want a quick snack."
4. Archer Grass-Fed Beef Stick Minis
Another popular find for lunches, snacks, and more, are beef sticks, which can provide some extra protein, healthy fats, and other nutrients in the form of a tiny stick that you can easily take on the go. If you prefer savory snacks over sweet ones, these beef sticks might just be the choice for you.
"These beef sticks are a savory, high-protein snack option without added sugar, which is ideal if you don't enjoy sweet jerky," says Benson. "Pairing them with fruit adds fiber and carbohydrates, creating a more balanced snack that supports sustained energy."
The Two Grocery Items You Should Skip
1. Premade Green Juices
At Costco, it can be really tempting to grab some of the premade, ready-to-go beverages that are marketed as healthy and look healthy. However, some of them are actually packed with sugar or other ingredients that can make weight loss and health transformations harder. While fruit juice without additives can be nutritious, it's better when paired with a balanced meal.
"Juices can contain vitamins and antioxidants, but they lack the fiber found in whole fruits and vegetables, which helps with fullness and blood sugar regulation," says Benson. "If you choose juice, pairing it with protein (such as eggs or another protein source) can help create a more balanced intake and support steadier energy."
2. High-Sugar Breakfast Cereals
There are many people who can't get through their days without a bowl of cereal for breakfast, as it's been considered a convenient staple for a long time. Getting some at Costco can be tempting, as they'll have great deals on family-style boxes.
Still, over time, people have learned more and more about what that rush of sugar in the morning can do to you, therefore making sugary breakfast cereal something that should be more of an occasional treat.
"Large boxes of sugary cereals are easy to overeat and often don't provide lasting fullness or energy," notes Benson. "Many people find that multiple bowls lead to blood sugar spikes followed by crashes, which can leave them feeling more tired and hungry shortly after eating."
