Having a game plan when you enter a supermarket may help you stick to your list and buy healthier foods. Avoiding the aisles and shopping mainly around the perimeter of the store may help individuals with weight loss as well, according to registered dietician Gaye Lynn Hicks of the Methodist Weight Management Center in Houston.

"In most grocery stores, the aisles are filled with canned goods, frozen and boxed dinners that are loaded with fat and extra unnecessary calories," said Hicks. "The perimeter features fruits, vegetables, lean meats and other healthy fair."

Experts say it’s important to be aware of food labels and to find foods within the aisles with the fewest amount of ingredients.

"The top five ingredients listed make up the food, the rest are preservatives and additives to give it flavor. Many times this leads to additional fat and calories. It should be a red flag if you see they are adding a large amount of sugars and fats." said Hicks.

Some health practitioners have suggested the alkaline diet for those trying to shed extra pounds. It is based on citrus fruits, vegetables, tubers, nuts and legumes.