WANT EVEN MORE HEALTHY IDEAS FROM SHAPE YOUR FUTURE?
Things seem to get more and more expensive every day, and healthy living is no exception. The good news? Your grocery bill doesn’t have to drain your wallet, and other healthy choices can be totally free.
Here are 11 tips to help you save money while making healthy choices.
Grocery Shopping
- Make a list at home. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with options the second you step in a grocery store. Instead of filling your cart with everything that catches your eye, have a plan before you go in. This also gives you the chance to look in your fridge and pantry to avoid buying duplicate products. Choose one of Shape Your Future’s meal plans to help you plan your menu and your list.
- Buy seasonal fruits and veggies. Buying produce in season ensures a better flavor and tends to be cheaper since it’s more abundant. You can also visit local farmers markets to support your friends’ and neighbors’ harvests.
- Shop the freezer section. Frozen produce is picked at peak freshness and flash frozen, meaning it has just as many nutrients as fresh produce. Plus, it can last for several months in your freezer and save you a couple dollars.
- Stay on the outer edges. When you shop, fresh whole foods like produce, dairy and whole grains tend to be along the walls of the store, while aisles are usually reserved for pricey prepackaged options. Challenge yourself to see how much of your list you can cross off before hitting up the aisles. You’ll find healthier, cheaper options.
- Eat before you go. This is a classic tip that’s still effective. If you pop into the grocery store with an empty stomach, every item you see will make your mouth water. Try to make grocery runs after mealtime or at least after eating a snack. It’ll help you stick to your list!
- Skip the sugar-sweetened beverages. Sodas, sports drinks and juice boxes are loaded with sugar, and they’re also expensive. So, take them out of your cart completely! Opt for water when you’re home to save money and feel healthier. Think water is boring? Try these fruit-infused recipes!
- Check for deals. See if your local grocery store has any ads, coupons or an app to help you rack up the savings.
Exercising
- Pass on the gym membership. If you’re trying to get in shape, a pricey gym membership may stop you in your tracks. In Oklahoma, gym memberships can cost anywhere from $10-$100 a month, which can drain a lot of your budget. However, you don’t need one! Work out at home with free videos, household items or just your body weight.
- Explore Oklahoma parks. If you need a change in scenery, visit your local park or playground for a quick circuit or just a brisk walk. If you have kids, let them get their energy out while you work out.
- Work out with a friend. Grab a friend or neighbor to try new workouts with you and offer encouragement. Nothing is better than a buddy to move with.
- Get your family involved. Kids need 60 minutes of physical activity each day, and adults need 30. Challenge your family to get some movement and see how you all feel! It doesn’t have to be hard — outdoor games, after-dinner walks and even chores can count as physical activity.
Make Small Changes for Big Savings
The key to staying healthy on a budget is making small changes that add up over time. Start with one or two tips and gradually add more as they become habits. Track your progress to see how much money you save and let those numbers motivate you to try new things.
Life can be expensive, but taking care of yourself is one of the best investments you can make. You’ve got this!