Americans are spending less these days on just about everything. With junk food prices declining, most Americans are opting for DoubleStuf Oreo’s instead of whole grain, glucose free snacks. We wanted to share some tips for saving money, eating healthy, and heck even dropping a couple pounds all at the same time!
Going to the grocery store three times a week isn’t just annoying, it’s costly. Those quick trips to the store for milk and bread add up. Do you ever just leave with what you went in for? No. Usually a frozen pizza, soda or a Snicker’s bar sneaks its way into your shopping basket. Plan a weekly grocery trip instead. Try making a running list throughout the week on paper, or even your iPhone. This will help you get everything in one shot!
Eating before you shop can also help lower your grocery bill. Nibble on a few whole grain crackers before you head out the door. It may sound silly, but it will help control your hunger and impulse buying. You’ll feel full and be less likely to get grab-happy in the grocery aisles.
Are you a grocery shopping multi-tasker? It’s an easy way to find yourself in the candy aisle grabbing malted milk balls instead of the broccoli that was on your list. An easy way to avoid these unconscious buys is to work the edges. The healthiest food groups outline most stores (produce, dairy case, meats, and seafood). Try to spend most of your shopping time here, instead of in the highly processed foods section.
Whole grain, multigrain, white; what’s the difference? Brush up on your nutrition lingo and pick the best bread for your diet. Whole grain means the grains used haven’t been stripped of their nutrients. So if you are a morning slice of toast person, whole grain is a good choice for you. Multigrain can be tricky as it means that multiple grains were used, but says nothing about how finely they were ground. Opt for whole grain pasta and bread. It’s best for an overall healthier diet and I bet you can fool your family and friends into liking the whole grain taste in their spaghetti.
Are you a coffee addict? Running to Starbucks once a day really adds up! Try brewing your own cup instead. Most grocery stores have quite the selection and even carry Starbucks flavored coffee. Start treating yourself to Starbucks once a week instead of once a day, and you’ll see the savings start to add up.
Scared of natural foods store? We promise it’s not a scary place and prices aren’t too far off from the usual grocery store. Step out of your comfort zone and step into a Whole Foods. Purchase a few products and mix them in with your ‘regular’ groceries. Before you know it going to a natural food store will become, well, natural.
Bottom line tips – work the outside of the grocery store for nutritional success and don’t be lured into the candy aisle. Have fresh produce in your fridge at all times for a healthier snack alternative. Keep a running grocery list and go once a week, maybe to a natural food store for a change. These tips will not only help you eat healthier but keep a little more cash in your wallet.
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