Whilst most of us are trying to find ways to improve our way of life, it can be difficult at times. This is especially true in the recent economy, where tightening our belts has become the rule of the day. If we are shopping for food for our families, for instance, we would naturally want our children to eat healthy, nutritious food. But you don’t need to sacrifice your family’s overall health, even if you are watching your budget. You can still give your family the proper food by learning a few tips.
Avoid unnecessary spending on food
We may not realise it, but the amount of money we spend on food can be significantly reduced with the right strategies. If you haven’t been keeping track of your food spending habits before, now is the time to start. You can begin by assessing yourself. Do you usually eat out or order takeaway? If you do, it might be time to avoid this, or at least cut it down to once a month. You would be surprised by the amount you will save by simply eating at home more often or preparing meals yourself.
Watch your groceries
The next time you step into the shop, take note of what you are “led” to buy. Sometimes we don’t have a grocery checklist, and, because of this, we end up spending more and buying items that we don’t really need. Make a list of your grocery items and stick to it. Another tip that works every time: Do not go shopping on an empty stomach. Your tendency, if you are hungry, is to buy extra food items – especially junk food.
If you have been in the habit of buying snacks and sweets, as well as processed foods or precooked meals, limit this. Focus instead on fresh meat and produce, which cost less in the long run because you can prepare them and store them in bulk for the whole family to enjoy. Have you ever noticed that most shops have fresh produce at the perimeters or the sides? One handy trick is to shop around the sides first and fill your basket with fresh food so you are less likely to buy snack foods, which are usually located in the middle.
Cook big portions of soups or stews
Another way of saving money and ensuring that your family eats healthy is to cook in bulk. For instance, you can make one big pot of stew or soup for the family to heat up during the week as desired. Soups and stews are not only filling, but absolutely healthy as well. Also, soups and stews are easy to make, and you can basically load them with just about any type of vegetable or meat.
Choose the healthiest, highest-quality food
Once you have begun eating out less and focusing more on fresh food items, you will notice a difference in your food budget. So what you can do with your extra savings is to buy the healthiest food, such as organically grown vegetables, which are free from pesticides, or Halal meat, which is hygienically and ethically processed and packaged
By doing this, not only will you feel better about your improved lifestyle – your health will benefit as well.