7 must-have Costco foods you should have if you’re over 50!
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As we sail into our golden years, the quest for vitality and wellness becomes more than a goal—it's a necessity.
And where better to stock up on the staples of a healthful diet than at the treasure trove of good eats known as Costco?
While the warehouse giant may be renowned for its colossal confections and indulgent eats, it's also a goldmine for nutritious foods that cater to the specific needs of those over 50.
Here’s a list of 7 essential Costco foods, as recommended by nutrition expert Tara Collingwood, board certified sports dietitian and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, that deserve a permanent spot in your kitchen.
1. Wild-caught salmon
Embark on your culinary journey with a robust source of protein: wild-caught salmon. Whether you prefer it fresh or frozen, this fish is swimming with Omega-3 fatty acids, which are champions for heart and brain health, says Tara.
As inflammation and cognitive function become more pressing concerns with age, incorporating salmon into your diet can be a delicious defense. Costco's selection allows for a variety of preparations, so whether you're grilling, baking, or pan-searing, you're in for a heart-healthy treat.
2. Eggs
Don't put all your eggs in one basket—unless that basket is from Costco. These oval wonders are a bargain and boast a wealth of nutrients, including choline, which is crucial for brain health. "They are rich in choline for brain function, nutrient-dense, and good quality protein," shares Tara.
Eggs are a culinary chameleon; enjoy them poached at breakfast, hard-boiled atop a salad, or whisked into a cake batter. Just be quick to the draw—Costco's eggs are a hot commodity, and you'll want to ensure your fridge is stocked.
3. Oats
For those over 50, oats are not just a breakfast staple but a heart-healthy necessity. Whether you opt for steel-cut or rolled, oats are a powerhouse of complex carbohydrates and fiber, aiding in digestion and cholesterol management.
"Great for complex carbs, fiber for heart health and digestion," Collingwood says. Costco's bulk offerings mean you can enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of oatmeal or bake to your heart's content, all while supporting your cardiovascular system.
4. Avocados
In the realm of produce, avocados are the unsung heroes of heart and brain health, thanks to their healthy fats and fiber. Whether you're crafting the perfect guacamole, enriching a
smoothie, or simply enjoying slices on whole-grain toast, avocados are a versatile ally in your wellness journey.
Take it from the Costco connoisseurs on social media: the Mexican variety is the way to go for that buttery texture and rich flavor.
5. Berries
Berries are a burst of flavor and an arsenal of antioxidants and fiber, making them a formidable force against disease and digestive woes. Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries—Costco has them all, fresh or frozen.
"Berries are high in antioxidants and fiber for digestive health and disease prevention," says Collingwood. Sprinkle them on your morning cereal, blend them into a refreshing smoothie, or savor them by the handful. Buying in bulk means you'll always have these nutrient-packed gems at the ready.
6. Greens
If you're over 50, greens should be a staple in your diet, and Costco's selection is second to none. Broccoli, spinach, and kale are verdant vessels of antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Toss them in a salad, stir-fry them for a side, or hide them in a smoothie—however you consume them, these greens are a simple way to meet your daily nutritional needs.
7. Cottage cheese or Greek yogurt
Finally, for a dairy delight, turn to Costco's low-fat cottage cheese or Kirkland's Plain Greek Yogurt. "It is high in calcium, Vitamin D, and protein for bones and muscles," she says, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and muscles.
Whether you're spooning them straight from the container or incorporating them into recipes, these high-protein picks are perfect for keeping meals light and your body fortified.
Have you discovered a Costco gem that's become a staple in your healthy diet? Do you have a favorite recipe using one of these seven superfoods? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!
And where better to stock up on the staples of a healthful diet than at the treasure trove of good eats known as Costco?
While the warehouse giant may be renowned for its colossal confections and indulgent eats, it's also a goldmine for nutritious foods that cater to the specific needs of those over 50.
Here’s a list of 7 essential Costco foods, as recommended by nutrition expert Tara Collingwood, board certified sports dietitian and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, that deserve a permanent spot in your kitchen.
Image source: Costco.
1. Wild-caught salmon
Embark on your culinary journey with a robust source of protein: wild-caught salmon. Whether you prefer it fresh or frozen, this fish is swimming with Omega-3 fatty acids, which are champions for heart and brain health, says Tara.
As inflammation and cognitive function become more pressing concerns with age, incorporating salmon into your diet can be a delicious defense. Costco's selection allows for a variety of preparations, so whether you're grilling, baking, or pan-searing, you're in for a heart-healthy treat.
Image source: Costco.
2. Eggs
Don't put all your eggs in one basket—unless that basket is from Costco. These oval wonders are a bargain and boast a wealth of nutrients, including choline, which is crucial for brain health. "They are rich in choline for brain function, nutrient-dense, and good quality protein," shares Tara.
Eggs are a culinary chameleon; enjoy them poached at breakfast, hard-boiled atop a salad, or whisked into a cake batter. Just be quick to the draw—Costco's eggs are a hot commodity, and you'll want to ensure your fridge is stocked.
Image source: Costco.
3. Oats
For those over 50, oats are not just a breakfast staple but a heart-healthy necessity. Whether you opt for steel-cut or rolled, oats are a powerhouse of complex carbohydrates and fiber, aiding in digestion and cholesterol management.
"Great for complex carbs, fiber for heart health and digestion," Collingwood says. Costco's bulk offerings mean you can enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of oatmeal or bake to your heart's content, all while supporting your cardiovascular system.
Image source: Costco.
4. Avocados
In the realm of produce, avocados are the unsung heroes of heart and brain health, thanks to their healthy fats and fiber. Whether you're crafting the perfect guacamole, enriching a
smoothie, or simply enjoying slices on whole-grain toast, avocados are a versatile ally in your wellness journey.
Take it from the Costco connoisseurs on social media: the Mexican variety is the way to go for that buttery texture and rich flavor.
Image source: Costco.
5. Berries
Berries are a burst of flavor and an arsenal of antioxidants and fiber, making them a formidable force against disease and digestive woes. Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries—Costco has them all, fresh or frozen.
"Berries are high in antioxidants and fiber for digestive health and disease prevention," says Collingwood. Sprinkle them on your morning cereal, blend them into a refreshing smoothie, or savor them by the handful. Buying in bulk means you'll always have these nutrient-packed gems at the ready.
Image source: Costco.
6. Greens
If you're over 50, greens should be a staple in your diet, and Costco's selection is second to none. Broccoli, spinach, and kale are verdant vessels of antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Toss them in a salad, stir-fry them for a side, or hide them in a smoothie—however you consume them, these greens are a simple way to meet your daily nutritional needs.
Image source: Costco.
7. Cottage cheese or Greek yogurt
Finally, for a dairy delight, turn to Costco's low-fat cottage cheese or Kirkland's Plain Greek Yogurt. "It is high in calcium, Vitamin D, and protein for bones and muscles," she says, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and muscles.
Whether you're spooning them straight from the container or incorporating them into recipes, these high-protein picks are perfect for keeping meals light and your body fortified.
Have you discovered a Costco gem that's become a staple in your healthy diet? Do you have a favorite recipe using one of these seven superfoods? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!
