Living without access to a car usually means that you have to “schlep” groceries home on foot or by bike or public transit. While some may see this as an inconvenience, schlepping has many health benefits, and it’s not just the workout you get from carrying heavy bags across town.
In a post entitled “The Hidden Benefits of Schlepping Groceries,” Streetsblog.org quotes D.C. blogger Rob Pitingolo, who points out that schlepping requires you to be more selective in your grocery choices. Certain items, such as packs of soda cans, are bulky and heavy, so it makes sense to pass on these things if you have to carry your purchases home. This means that you choose the healthier option of not buying the sugary soda in the first place. Also, buying fewer items reduces food waste. When the amount you buy is limited to what you can carry, you don’t end up with more than you need.