Lose Weight, Not Money. Better food doesn’t have to cost oodles of cash. While fresh, natural ingredients can cost more than frozen or processed foods, it’s possible to eat a diet that is healthy for you and your budget.
- Shop at home before going to the store. Plan to use the foods you already have on hand, especially any perishable items, before buying more at the store.
- Plan your meals, make a list and don’t shop hungry. Know what you’re going to the store for and stick to those items! Unplanned purchases add up in a hurry, and they’re usually items that dent your diet as well as your bank account.
- Use coupons when you shop. This one seems obvious because it is. Most people don’t make an effort to look online or in newspapers for grocery coupons, but those that do save a lot of money over time! Start clipping coupons (or seeking out deals and specials online). If you track how much you save, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the results!
- Compare brands. When you want to purchase a name-brand item (e.g., soda, cereal, even health and beauty products), compare it with cheaper brands and see if you can tell the difference—often, you really are just paying for the name on the box.
- Join your store’s loyalty program. Many grocery store chains offer additional discounts, coupons or incentives to customers who sign up for a loyalty program. Most of these programs are free to join. If your local store offers one, take advantage of it!
- Buy in bulk… If there are non-perishable, durable items you know you’ll use, see if it’s cheaper to buy in bulk! You’ll typically see cost savings and avoid adding another small purchase to your list each time you go to the store.
- …But avoid over-buying perishable items. Buy only the amount that can be eaten or frozen within a few days and plan ways to use leftovers later in the week.
Gallagher Wellbeing Newsletter, reprinted with permission