I had a bit of a shock recently after a chat with a friend about the crazy cost of groceries, even for those of us who rely upon whole and bulk foods cooking, which can often by less expensive. Yet the frighteningly high number my friend dropped struck a chord. We share similar shopping and eating habits, and I realized I wasn't keeping track of my monthly spending. So I added it up, which is where the shock came in. My grocery spending had increased more than 25% since the last time I'd reviewed the numbers. The bigger surprise though was just how many trips I was making to the store each week.
Yes, the same person who advocates planning ahead for healthier eating was running to the grocery every time for one purchase at a time. In the process, I was spending way more money than I would have if I'd just done a better job of planning ahead!
If you are not focused, it is very easy to develop a bad habit of wasting money or time. Whole and bulk food cooking can be cost effective when planned correctly. I was very happy when I got the wakeup call. Now, I am more inspired to create better strategies in saving time and money. How?
1. Always shop with a list. You'll realize a huge cost savings by reducing your trips to the market simply by using your shopping list. USNews calls creating a list and sticking to it the number one way to stretch your grocery budget, and save time and gas in the process. Be sure to take a careful inventory before you do so you forget the one thing you needed most.
2. Check out store flyers for specials and adjust your grocery list. Save money by using your coupons. Also, plan your meals based on the season.
3. Don't go anywhere near the inside aisles. Most unhealthy food items are located in this section. Stay close to the refrigerated area, fresh produce section, and bulk items. Nutritious beans are also great options compared to the canned ones. They also taste better.
4. Don't shop when we're hungry or stressed. Stress can cause the impulsive part of your brain to take charge, which is when impulse buys tend to happen. It's worth it to sit for a moment and take some time to regroup before you enter the store to avoid making impulsive decisions.
5. Your budget stretches further when you decide to prioritize the nutritional content of the foods you buy. Skipping the empty calories not only helps to keep your blood sugar levels balanced and your weight in check, it saves you money. Granted this is a tough one, but be mindful or your purchases and limit low nutrient treats.
6. Limit your meat intake. Meat is the costliest part of a meal. You can meet your protein needs by eating healthier choices and less expensive food. For instance, beans are among the healthiest and cost effective food groups that can provide you the protein you need. Not only that, there are numerous and delicious ways to prepare them.
7. Feed your freezer. Make double portions of foods like soup and lasagna, enjoy half the day you make it and freeze the rest for later. Storing leftovers in individual serving containers creates fast and easy options for lunch. Bean and grain dishes also freeze well and thaw quickly for last minute use.
If you will think of it, most strategies to keep you healthy also help you to save money. Always plan ahead. Deciding which food to buy based on their nutritional content and cost is a great way to make sure you are eating healthy every day.
Yes, the same person who advocates planning ahead for healthier eating was running to the grocery every time for one purchase at a time. In the process, I was spending way more money than I would have if I'd just done a better job of planning ahead!
If you are not focused, it is very easy to develop a bad habit of wasting money or time. Whole and bulk food cooking can be cost effective when planned correctly. I was very happy when I got the wakeup call. Now, I am more inspired to create better strategies in saving time and money. How?
1. Always shop with a list. You'll realize a huge cost savings by reducing your trips to the market simply by using your shopping list. USNews calls creating a list and sticking to it the number one way to stretch your grocery budget, and save time and gas in the process. Be sure to take a careful inventory before you do so you forget the one thing you needed most.
2. Check out store flyers for specials and adjust your grocery list. Save money by using your coupons. Also, plan your meals based on the season.
3. Don't go anywhere near the inside aisles. Most unhealthy food items are located in this section. Stay close to the refrigerated area, fresh produce section, and bulk items. Nutritious beans are also great options compared to the canned ones. They also taste better.
4. Don't shop when we're hungry or stressed. Stress can cause the impulsive part of your brain to take charge, which is when impulse buys tend to happen. It's worth it to sit for a moment and take some time to regroup before you enter the store to avoid making impulsive decisions.
5. Your budget stretches further when you decide to prioritize the nutritional content of the foods you buy. Skipping the empty calories not only helps to keep your blood sugar levels balanced and your weight in check, it saves you money. Granted this is a tough one, but be mindful or your purchases and limit low nutrient treats.
6. Limit your meat intake. Meat is the costliest part of a meal. You can meet your protein needs by eating healthier choices and less expensive food. For instance, beans are among the healthiest and cost effective food groups that can provide you the protein you need. Not only that, there are numerous and delicious ways to prepare them.
7. Feed your freezer. Make double portions of foods like soup and lasagna, enjoy half the day you make it and freeze the rest for later. Storing leftovers in individual serving containers creates fast and easy options for lunch. Bean and grain dishes also freeze well and thaw quickly for last minute use.
If you will think of it, most strategies to keep you healthy also help you to save money. Always plan ahead. Deciding which food to buy based on their nutritional content and cost is a great way to make sure you are eating healthy every day.
About the Author:
Elizabeth Borelli is the Author of Beanalisious Living. Her goal is to educate, inspire, and offer easy ways to cook towards a healthy lifestyle. Visit her site at www.ElizabethBorelli.com.
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