For many of us, we are having to stay on our budget through out these hard financial times.  It is also important to remember to eat healthy even though the unhealthy foods may cost less. Here are some tips for sticking to the budget and eating healthy:

  • Making a grocery list
    If you already have what you are going to buy written down when you enter the grocery store you won’t be tempted to buy and spend more than planned.  It is a great way to not be sucked in to great sales on items you want but don’t need.

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  • Coupons
    You already will have your list of groceries written down so plan ahead.  Get online and get coupons for the items you are buying so you can get the best deal possible on everything. Click here for my favorite coupon site.
  • Don’t buy prepared food
    It is worth saving the extra dollar or two to shred your own cheese or cut up your lettuce.  Those extra $2 could cost you $104.30 by the end of the year if you spend $2 more a week.  Wouldn’t your wallet love a little extra money?
  •  Buy Frozen Veggies
    I love them because they never go bad.  Cheaper then fresh and never go bad? They are healthy, low calorie, and a super great buy!
  • Shop alone
    Have you ever noticed a difference in the bill when you take people grocery shopping with you? (husband, wife, children) Go by yourself! In a month I am sure you will notice a little extra money in the food budget
  • Shop the perimeter of the grocery store
    If you don’t go up and down the aisles you avoide processed foods.  You get plenty of healthy options but still are able to save buy not paying for packaged foods.
  • For protein learn to go for eggs, legumes, and canned tuna or canned chicken (in water not oil)
    These protein sources are all very cheap and still help keep your diet balanced. 
  • Go for the generic
    You can get the same quality of food, but you don’t pay for the name brand.  An easy way to save money but sometimes we forget that the generic is just as good as the known name.  Try it out, you won’t notice a difference
  • Eliminate sports drinks, soda, and juices
    They are usually packed with sugar and you need water.  Tap water=cheap. Try keeping water bottles of tap water in your fridge so you pick that when you go for a cold drink.