Sunday, June 22, 2014

How College Students Can Eat Healthy on a Limited Budget


 

College can be fun, and it can be expensive. It may seem hard to stick to a healthy diet while living on a limited budget.  However, with a little smart planning, you can purchase food that is good for you and easy on your wallet.

#1:  Check your cabinets

Before heading out to the grocery store, be sure to check to see what you already have in stock.  Do not buy unnecessary items. This simple step will keep you from wasting money at the grocery store. 

#2: Hunt for Coupons

Coupons have become a popular and cost effective form of currency.  They can help to lower your grocery bill, and all it takes to get them is a copy of the Sunday paper. Coupons can also be found on social network and the different company websites. Many companies offer coupons on their products.  All you have to do is sign up and start receiving coupons.

#3: Buy in season

Fruits and vegetables are an important part of any healthy diet.  In order to save money while sticking to a healthy diet, it is essential to buy fruits and vegetables while they are in season.  They are cheaper when they are in season.  Learn which fruits are in season. Then, plan your menu and make your purchases accordingly.

#4: Wait for a sale

Sure, it may be hard to hold off on buying your favorite yogurt or sports drink, but it is always best to wait for a sale. Check store sells and keep up with the prices at several different stores by collecting the sales circulars.  By keeping up with the circulars, you can determine who has the lowest price on your desired purchase.

#5: Buy in bulk

When an item you eat on a regular basis is on sell, buy it in bulk as long as it is not a perishable item. Try to purchase enough to last for three depending on the amount of space that you have in your dorm or apartment. By purchasing an item in large quantities, you will prevent having to buy it again until it goes back on sale.

#6: Plan ahead

Before heading to the store, have a detailed plan of what you will buy and what coupons or discounts you will use. This will save you time and money. A detailed list and organized coupons will prevent you from having to search for the coupons, and stop you from overspending.

#7: Eat less meat

Although most people plan their meals around meat, it does hurt to go meatless for at least one meal.  Most meats are also high in fats, and consuming too much can be unhealthy. 

#8: Leftovers

Wait! Before you throw out the uneaten portions of last night’s meal, try putting it up to be eaten later.  There are a lot of creative ways to use leftover meat and vegetables. These leftovers can be used in soups and sandwiches.

#9: Water

Drink more water.  It is usually free at most restaurants, and it has no calories.  Water is also need to help keep the body hydrated and to help remove deadly toxins from your system.

#10: Grow your own

What better way to ensure that your vegetables and herbs are fresh and pesticide free than to grow your own? Plant your own garden at home or if you live in a dorm, you can use pots to plant vegetables or herbs.  You can place them in a window or on a countertop.

Just because you are away from home doesn’t mean you can’t eat healthy.  Purchasing groceries can be expensive, but a little creativity can help you eat healthy and stick to your budget.

http://www.oprah.com/money/How-to-Save-Money-on-Groceries
http://frugalliving.about.com/od/grocerysavings/tp/Save_Money_on_Meat.htm

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