Smart Shopping Strategies
Follow these 10 tips to keep your healthy eating habits and checkbook in balance:
Get rid of food clutter.
Prior to every supermarket trip, clean out the pantry and fridge of foods gone bad and unused. Wipe down the shelves and get a clear view of what you need. It's a good way to make sure your next choices are healthy.
Make a list.
Write down what you need before you hit the store aisles. Stick to your list and you'll avoid impulsive, unhealthy buys.
Cut coupons.
Now, more than ever is the time to take advantage of the plethora of coupons available. But, make sure it's on products that fit into your healthy eating goals. Refrain from buying a bag of candy simply because you'll get double coupons.
Buy what's on sale.
Scan store circulars to see what stores have the most products you need, on sale. (You'll save even more if you have coupons for these products.) You can plan several "budget menus" each week around these products.
Eat a healthy snack before you shop.
Before you go shopping, have a healthy snack so you're not tempted by high-fat goodies. Smart Ones® Smart Anytime™ products offer easy choices to simply pop in the microwave and take with you.
Shop "off hours."
Pick a time when you know your supermarket isn't busy so you don't feel rushed. You'll have more time to compare prices, compare nutrition labels, and avoid unsatisfactory purchases.
Eat seasonally.
Depending on whether the produce was trucked in across the state, or flown in from across the globe, prices can vary greatly. Be sure you familiarize yourself with what's in season and when.
Take advantage of farm stands.
There's no better time to "shop local" than the garden season. You'll enjoy lots more flavor from vegetables and fruit that are picked that morning, plus, they'll last longer in your refrigerator. Also, consider purchasing some of these items and freezing them for use in the winter months when they'll be more expensive at the markets.
Stay home and celebrate.
Instead of going out for a special dinner, have a special one at home. You'll save loads of money, and you'll have better control over healthy ingredients and portion size. Set your table with nicer dishes and glassware. Light candles and play music. Take your time eating, as you would in a restaurant, and enjoy the conversation.
Exercise that won't cost you.
If you need to cut back on your gym membership, remember the weather this time of year is beautiful and offers loads of options for free exercise outdoors. Make time for bike rides in the park, walks after dinner with neighbors, and gardening activities.
SOURCES: Body & Soul; MyLifetime.com