I’ve heard it over and over again, “I can’t afford to eat healthy.” The truth is, you can. You just need to have a plan.
As a dietitian and a frugal shopper, I always try to find ways to buy healthy foods for my family while not over spending.
Here are 8 tips to make a Centsible Plan for healthy food shopping while on a budget.
1. Make a List
Take a few minutes to plan your meals and snacks ahead of time and make a list of what you will need. Check your pantry and fridge before going to the store to see what items you need.
2. Avoid impulse buys
Sticking to the list is key. Try to avoid impulse buys and junk food. If you don’t buy it, you won’t be tempted to eat it at home.
3. Don’t go to the grocery store hungry
I’m sure you’ve heard this before but it’s so true. We have all been there, you get to the grocery store hungry and everything looks so good. Try having a well-balanced snack with protein, fiber, and/or fat (avocado, nuts, peanut butter, ect) to help you feel full before shopping.
4. Buy in Bulk
If you are able to, and if it’s cheaper, buy some groceries in bulk. You can freeze the excess.
4. Buy produce that is in season
Produce can be expensive but look for what is in season and what is on sale. It is also ok to buy frozen fruits and vegetables. It tends to be cheaper and is still nutritious.
6. Try Curbside or Home Delivery
Although there might be fees- you will make less impulse buys and only get what you really need. You can also check your pantry and fridge to make sure you are not buying duplicates. I personally love curbside and save a lot of money by not roaming the stores.
7. Try some of the cash back apps
Using grocery apps, such as Ibiota, allow you to look for coupons and add items to your list ahead of time. There are a lot of apps out there that can help you save. Some provide coupons and some give you cash back. Every little bit helps.
8. Stick to water
Sodas and juices can be expensive and you can do without the added sugar anyway.
Disclaimer: The information on this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. You must always check with a Medical Professional for any medical advice.
Alexis
8 Sep 2020Wonderful list! I find it incredibly difficult to shop healthy on a budget. I try but sometimes, the budget just can’t deal with the price of some things! Love shopping in bulk, and I stopped buying soda when the pandemic started (for my husband, I’m a water only drinker.) that has helped us a TON the last six months! Great post!
Shoshana Flen
8 Sep 2020These are great ideas and I especially like drinking water…I have found now that I drink nothing but water and tea that sodas are way too sweet
Tiffany
8 Sep 2020This is something we’ve been making a change with in our household recently. I believe whole heartedly in not buying certain things to prevent from eating them (uh-hum Oreos). And, I do perform better with a list. It goes real sideways without one. These are all tips I would recommend to anyone! Thanks for sharing!
Karissa Parrish
8 Sep 2020Thank you for this list! It’s such a great reminder. I have to be better not going to the store hungry, haha!
Kathleen Wonders
9 Sep 2020Thanks for sharing this! Oh my grocery shopping when you’re hungry is definitely a big no-no! I almost always end up buying more…everything just looks so good! Haha. Curbside pick up is also so convenient! There are some screw-ups sometimes (like super long waits)…but at least you don’t get to be sidetracked by things that shouldn’t be on your list (ice cream, cookies, sweets!).
Kareena
12 Sep 2020These are great tips! I always go to the grocery store when hungry. Lol. Thanks for sharing.
Sabrina
9 Feb 2021Great tips – I am happy to know that I am currently using 7 out of the 8. I am not sure if using my grocery store app counts for number 7, as I save money using the store coupons. Thanks for sharing.
Katy
9 Feb 2021Great ideas! I’ve noticed having a list really does help, but those impulse buys still find their way into my cart sometimes. Especially if I’m hungry. Shopping at Aldi has helped since there aren’t as many aisles full of goodies to walk past.
Karri
9 Feb 2021My mom always told me the “don’t go shopping hungry” tip. It’s a good one! Thank you for these tips!
Stacey Herndon
9 Feb 2021I’m a grocery budget buster. With 5 picky kids and food sensitivities it’s HARD. Curbside has been a game changer for sure!
Tyanne
9 Feb 2021Great ideas! I need to try using ibotta. I have seen it advertised, but have never seen a testimonial on it until now!
Catt
9 Feb 2021We do all of these – kids think juice is a special drink for special occassions because we only drink it once in a great while, lol. Any tips for shopping whole foods on a budget? – just curious…