When you’re on a tight budget, meal planning and grocery shopping has its challenges. And when you have a tight budget and you’re dedicated to eating healthy, it can be even trickier to manage.
Here are some clever tips that can help you to eat healthy on a tight budget.
1. Plan your meals
Plans your meals for the week and make a grocery list. Only buy what you are sure you will use and check out what you already have in your fridge and cabinet first.
2. Stick to your grocery list
Once you have planned your meals and made a grocery list, stick to it while shopping. Shop the perimeter of the store first as this is where the whole foods are generally located.
3. Cook at home
Cooking at home is way cheaper than eating out. Some find it best to cook for the entire week on weekends while others like to cook one meal at a time.
4. Cook large portions and use your leftovers
Cooking large meals can save both time and money. Leftovers can be used during the following days.
5. Don’t shop when you are hungry
Shopping while hungry can lead to craving and impulsive buying. And if you are hungry, have a snack before you go grocery shopping
6. Buy whole foods
Whole foods are often less expensive than the processed ones. You can also buy them in larger quantities.
7. Stop buying junk foods
Stop buying junk food at the store. It is expensive and packed with unhealthy ingredients and offers little or no nutritional value.
8. Stock up on sales
If you have favorite products or staples that you use regularly, you should stock up on them when they are on sale.
9. Shop for produce that is in season
Produce that is in season is cheaper and more nutritious. If you buy too much, you can freeze the rest or put it into future meal plans.
10. Buy in bulk
Many foods are available in bulk for a way lower price. You can keep them for a long time in airtight containers, and can be used in a variety of healthy, inexpensive dishes.
Image courtesy of: myfulllifenutrition.com.
