Healthy Doesn’t Have to Equal Expensive

My July Bank Account was a sight to look at. I had reviewed my bank account. Bills, house, food, pets, experiences, and of course eating out. I counted 36 different food places in a month that has 31 days. My stomach sank into a pit. Guilt? Embarrassment? Gluten? Anxiety? I looked at the total.

$433.28

My eyes then scanned over to my July grocery spending $378.45

That = 811.73

Ooops didn’t include daily coffee runs.

+ 132 = 943.73

As I sat looking at my July spreadsheet, I looked at my well stocked fridge, freezer and pantry. It hit me that there had to be a better way. That's when I decided it was time for a change.

I went on a journey of budgeting and meal planning, determined to make the most of what I already had and minimize unnecessary spending. I started by creating a weekly grocery list, planning meals that complemented each other. No more buying half a product only to let the other half languish in the fridge. I used a meal planner to ensure that every ingredient I bought would be used efficiently.

This simple change had a profound impact. By prioritizing ingredients and meals that complemented each other, I found that I was saving over $150 each week on groceries. Not only did my meals become more delicious and varied, but my bank account started to look much healthier too. And my body.

My new approach to meal planning and budgeting not only saved me money but also brought a sense of accomplishment and control. With a bit of planning and creativity, I enjoy nutritious meals without breaking the bank.

Start with these tips

Create a Weekly Grocery List

One of the easiest ways to save money and avoid food waste is by creating a grocery list that benefits you for the whole week. No more buying half a product only to let the other half languish in the abyss of your fridge!

Utilize a meal planner to plan out meals that complement each ingredient you buy. For example, if you're buying a head of broccoli, plan to use it in a stir-fry one day and a soup the next, even a small snack for the leftover florets! This way, you'll use up everything and save money throughout the week. What if you used every ingredient in that same way? Save money, save waste, and still eat healthy.

Buy in Bulk

Bulk buying can be a game-changer for your budget. Staples like rice, beans, oats, and nuts are often cheaper when bought in larger quantities. Not only do these items have a long shelf life, but they're also incredibly versatile. You can whip up a variety of meals without constantly running to the store. Find what works with your diet!

Cook at Home

Dining out and ordering takeout can add up quickly. Cooking at home not only saves you money, but it also gives you control over what goes into your food. Experiment with new recipes, and you'll find that cooking can be a fun and rewarding experience.

Personally from sticking with my meal plans and cutting out eating out (maybe once per week), I saw $120-150 savings quickly! I currently save an average of $200 more than I used too, weekly.