Eating Healthy on a Budget

One of the most challenging jobs of every mom is to stay within the budget limit and save with the grocery bill without compromising the quality of foods that she provides for her family. But the question is how to do it.
Here are some tips that I want to share to other moms to cut weekly grocery bills, save money, and eat healthy.
1. GO for the Basics
Basic foods such as fruit and vegetables, milk, meat, pasta, rice, wholemeal bread and beans or legumes are important nutritious foods to have in a healthy diet. ’Extras’ like snack foods and soft drink can push you over your budget and add no nutrition.
2. Compare Prices
Do not buy on impulse, compare prices and watch for items on special. Using grocery store sales to stock up on such important staples as whole grain cereals, breads, etc. is a great way to make even the most limited food budget stretch a bit further.
3. Buy in bulk
Buy in bulk or buy the biggest size. But only if it’s something you like to eat and if it has a long shelf life. Stocking up on meats, seafood and poultry during store sales is another great way to save significant amounts of money. Take care though, compare the prices of large packages with smaller ones.
4. Plan your meals
Careful meal planning is another great way to save money. To do this, make a shopping list of all items you need for the meals that you prepared to prevent those impulse purchases that are often unnecessary and not the best for your health or your wallet! Keep a pad on your fridge to jot down things when you run out.
5. Use coupons and loyalty cards
Cutting coupons is a great way to save money on products you already buy. In addition, apply for the loyalty cards the grocery store chains offer and use it as often as possible to gain points and rewards.
6. Buy fresh but in season
Another excellent way to save money while still eating a healthy diet is to buy fresh fruits and vegetables when they are in season in your local area. Fruit can be expensive, so only buy what’s at its peak and cheapest. Have a bag of frozen peas or mixed vegies in the freezer as a stand-by. Nutritionally these are equivalent to fresh that have been cooked but remember to follow the directions on the pack and don’t over boil.