Eating Healthy on a Budget

With gas prices increasing, everything else is also getting more expensive, including food. So how do you continue to eat healthy with rising prices? Here are some tips to help keep money in your pocket while continuing to eat healthy!

1) Plan menus for the week. Make a shopping list of items you need and stick to it.

2) Use coupons and rewards cards where applicable.

3) Buy store brands. These are usually much cheaper and most often are of equal quality.

4) Buy items you use when they are on sale. If you see an item on sale that you use regularly, purchase it at that time, especially if you also have a coupon for it.

5) Shop the perimeter of the store. The healthier items are all on the perimeter of the store. It is those aisle items that can get you in trouble. Stick to the perimeter.

6) Shop seasonally and locally. Items that are in season tend to be cheaper. Shop at a local farmers market during season and you will find some great deals and high quality food.

7) Meat and dairy items tend to be the most expensive. If possible, reduce the intake of these items. Plan more meals that are vegetarian using beans, legumes and/or tofu.

Using these tips is a great way to start a new frame of thought for your meals. It can be fun and may even introduce you to new foods. Give it a try and have fun with it!

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