Eating Right on a Budget
Eating clean is ideal for many of us, but sometimes buying everything fresh and organic also seems expensive and can burst our budget. Trips to the grocery store can be nerve wrecking and add unwarranted stress in our lives. Planning our meals ahead of time can help alleviate some of that stress and by meal planning, you can buy in bulk. Finding food you can purchase in bulk not only helps your family’s budget, but will also keep you invested in your nutrition plan longer and force you to stay on track. While some of your nutrition should come from fresh foods, which should not be bought in large quantities, many of your food choices can be stored in the pantry or freezer for long periods of time. Here are some of the main foods to be on the lookout for on your next trip to the store to see if a bulk purchase could benefit your health, fitness plan, and wallet.
Chicken Breast
At your local supermarket, you can find healthy chicken breast in a couple of different areas. In the frozen food section, you can find bags of protein packed chicken breast that will stay in the freezer at home. Also, you can purchase fresh packages of chicken breast that you can separate at home and place in your own freezer bags. Using a food saver device can lengthen the amount of time the chicken will keep in the freezer. Often stores will offer sales or specials so being aware and finding those opportunities to buy a few extra packages of chicken breast can go a long way in helping your budget.
Dry Beans
A wonderful source of protein, dry beans are inexpensive and can be easily kept for long periods. These beans are versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes. Especially for those who may not be major carnivores, dry beans allow us to still secure a much-needed source of good protein. When packing on the muscle and bulking up, remember to buy your beans in bulk.
Canned or Frozen Vegetables
Vegetables are a must have for just about any nutrition plan and while using fresh produce for recipes might be our first choice, using frozen or canned vegetables can really help lower our bill. Make sure to search for low-sodium options especially if you choose to purchase can vegetables. While they may last longer than frozen vegetables, they have a bit higher sodium level. Frozen vegetables are lower in sodium and still have a much longer life than fresh produce and much easier on our tight budget as well.
Your newspaper and store sales ads can be your best resource. If you do not receive the newspaper full of flyers you can investigate your store online and view the current sales. Sign up to receive their emails, coupons, or join their loyalty program. Watch for 1 day or 3 day amazing sales and arrange to get to the store then. These door buster sales are meant to draw you in to buy more, but you can just get those great deals! Your budget will thank you and you will have great food to prepare.