Eating right on a budget can be easy when you take the time to plan meals on a daily basis. Use these tips to start eating right – with as little money as possible. Fruits and vegetables can be more expensive than shopping through the processed food section of the supermarket. The food guide recommends that you eat from five to ten servings of vegetables and fruits per day – which can be quite costly when it comes to buying fresh fruit from the supermarket!
Shop the sales. It is important to compare prices from various supermarkets to find the lowest prices of produce. When something goes on sale, it’s a great time to stock up for the week. It can be difficult to stock up on fruits or vegetables as eating fresh only lasts so long!
Shop in Season. Foods that are out of season, such as exotic fruits can be costly as well. When you shop for fruits and vegetables that are out of season it can cost you upwards of double the regular price of the fruit! Research which vegetables are in season at various times during the year, as well as fruit or simply ask your produce expert to determine which fruits and vegetables are in season – or on sale!
Shop Frozen. Frozen fruits and vegetables are a great way to get your favorite fruit and vegetables, regardless of the season – for a cheaper price. Once these vegetables are cooked you can barely tell the difference between the fresh and frozen meals. Frozen vegetables are great to serve in smoothies, ice cream and other desserts and can help you to get at least five servings of fruit in as little as one fruit smoothie!
Stock Up. Whole grains are a great way to eat healthy and can be obtained for a low price when you shop in bulk. Shopping in bulk can be simple when you purchase Ziploc bags and split up the amounts for a weekly or even daily consumption. For instance, you don’t have to use all four loaves of bread that come in a large package you can split it up to use two per week, or even one per week.
Use Coupons. There are many valuable coupons that can be obtained directly from the manufacturer, from the website or even at the store! Many of these valuable coupons can be clipped directly from the store flyer and can save upwards of thirty dollars per shopping trip! Learn when to shop and how to shop to make the most of your dollar while eating healthy on a budget.
Use frozen Proteins. Frozen proteins are available from a variety of stores and contain just as much nutrients as fresh protein. Considering that most of us arrive home just to pop these items in the freezer, this is a feasible money-saving option to allow you to live a healthy lifestyle.
