Sticking to Your Food Budget

GUEST CONTRIBUTOR: ELIZABETH DAVIS, USU EXTENSION ASSITANT PROFESSOR

​One of the greatest assets that we have is our own health. When we are healthy it is easy to take it for granted and assume that we will always have the energy, strength, and ability to do the things that are important to us. Eating well, exercising and getting enough sleep are all an important part of taking care of our bodies. Unfortunately, sometimes we let the “cost” of being healthy get in the way. For example, I have heard from many people that they can’t afford to eat healthy. In order to preserve our health, it is important to recognize that we can successfully eat healthy even on a tight grocery budget.  Here are a few simple tips from nutrition Blogger Brittney Johnson to help you decrease your spending and increase your family’s health and longevity.

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1. CREATE A GAME PLAN - Like any other factor in life, preparation makes a difference.  Knowing what you need ahead of time, will decrease impulse purchases and food waste.  Be committed to shopping with a list and only purchasing what is on your list. 
 
2. WHAT TO BUY - Aim for meals that incorporate ingredients located on the outer isles of the store.  These ingredients are fresher and more nutrient dense, providing your body with increased nutrients.

3. COOK WHAT YOU BUY - Plan your meal order according to the perishable items.  If one dinner requires bell peppers, cook this recipe before your recipe requiring a frozen veggie.  This will eliminate food waste and increase your fresh food consumption and increase your family's nutrient intake.

4.  Final tip to help you stay on track. DON’T SHOP HUNGRY. Research indicates that we are more likely to make impulsive purchases when hungry. Do yourself a favor and do grocery shopping on a full stomach. 
 
For additional tips and tricks to help you pursue a nutritious lifestyle on a budget visit http://kanecountyfoodsense.blogspot.com/

Elizabeth Davis loves the variety that a career in Extension brings. She particularly enjoys teaching relationship skills, money management, and STEM. She loves spending time in the sunshine and being with family and friends.