Who here is trying to eat healthier? It can be hard, especially on a budget..
Here are 10 tips to help you out:
1. Buy vegetables, fruits, and meats while they are in-season (and in turn, cheapest and most nutritious). Freeze and dehydrate your foods so you can enjoy their flavors year round, without the hefty price tag.
2. Support local farmers! If you purchase directly from the grower, you will cut out the middle man (and his fees).
3. Don’t know how to find a farmer? Try the Farmer’s Market! Most areas have a local Farmer’s Market, and that is where you will find the best produce and meats, at a fraction of what the grocery stores are charging.
4. Join or start a co-op. Basically you will get the buying power and discount of purchasing in bulk, but will only take your share – and the other co-op members will take their share.
5. Buy in bulk. Buy big and even if you have a small family you can still put it all to use. Separate it and put it into quart or pint containers, whichever is right for you.
6. Find a supplier. You can purchase a truckload of grains and split it amongst friends (or your co-op), and save a ton!
7. Plant your own garden. Think you don’t have enough room? Think again! I know of one blogger that grows most of her fruits and vegetables in her very small city backyard. You can use rain gutters, or get creative with other items, to grow your herbs, sprouts, and any vegetables that will survive in your climate.
Also see: Organic Garden on the Cheap: Protect and Feed Your Garden for Pennies!
8. Make a menu plan, and list, and stick to it. At the beginning of each week (or month), sit down and come up with at least 5 dinner ideas for each week. The other two days can be your “easy” meals or leftovers. Having a menu will save you time, stress, and money!
9. Get recipe books from the thrift store, and use them! Instead of going out for dinner or dessert, make your own. Pick up a recipe book, flip to a random page, and put that recipe on your dinner menu for the week.
10. Use coupons, and don’t be afraid to switch brands. Most of the time, coupons aren’t for the healthiest of foods. But sometimes you get lucky. When that happens, stock up – and don’t be afraid to try a different brand!
What’s your best tip for eating healthy on a budget?
The post Want to Eat Healthy on a Budget? 10 Tips That Make it Easy appeared first on Frugal Living Mom.