Eating well on a budget.
Eating wisely doesn’t have to be expensive.
Here are a few tips to keep your calories and budget in balance.
  1. Plan your weekly menu of meals and snacks in advance.
  2. Include meals like stews, casseroles or stir-fries that stretch expensive items into smaller portions.
  3. Check to see what foods you already have, then make a grocery list and stick to it.
  4. Clip coupons and use weekly ads to find the best sales. Ask about a loyalty card for extra savings at stores where you shop.
  5. Do not shop when you are hungry. It’s easier to stick to your shopping list when you’re not hungry.
  6. Compare store and generic brands for the best buy.
  7. Take advantage of sales.
  8. Buy and cook in bulk and freeze or use leftovers for future meals.
  9. Stretch costly meals, like meat dishes by substituting beans and adding more vegetables.
  10. Read the Nutrition Facts located on the food label to get the best nutrition and most value for your money.
  11. Buy in season, choosing fresh vegetables and fruit. Visit your local farmers market. Shop for discounted produce or better yet, why not grow your own vegetables, fruit or herbs.
  12. Stock up on canned or frozen vegetables or fruit, when they go on sale. This is a great alternative to fresh produce and can save money.
  13. Select fruit that is frozen, unsweetened or canned in its own juice. Select vegetables without added salt, butter or cream sauces.
  14. Shop for beans, peas, eggs, canned tuna packed in water and peanut butter, which are good sources of protein and good buys.
  15. Purchase whole grains like pasta, bread and rice, as they’re a good source of fiber and make inexpensive side dishes.
Finally, why not go back to the basics by making meals from scratch. The convenience foods like frozen dinner, pre-cut vegetables and instant rice, oatmeal or grits; they’ll cost you more money in the long run. If you make them from scratch they’ll be much less.
Get creative making your meals and using leftovers.