Save money on your grocery budget!
As food prices continue to rise, many families are looking for ways to make their grocery budget go further.
Fortunately, with careful planning and some smart strategies, it’s possible to stretch your food dollar without sacrificing nutrition or variety.
These three key components can help prevent rapid blood sugar spikes, ensuring more stable glucose levels throughout the day:
One of the most effective ways to save money on groceries is to plan your meals based on what’s on sale.
Plan Meals Around Sales and Discounts
Check weekly flyers, apps, or websites for discounts and promotions before heading to the store. Look for deals on staple items like rice, pasta, beans, and frozen vegetables. By planning meals around these items, you can create cost-effective dishes without feeling restricted.
Store-brand or generic items are often just as good as name-brand products but are typically priced lower.
Opt for Generic Brands
Many generic foods, such as canned vegetables, rice, and pasta, have the same nutritional value as their more expensive counterparts. Don’t be afraid to compare labels and give generics a try—you might be surprised by the quality.
Impulse purchases can quickly add up and throw your budget off track.
Avoid Impulse Buys
To avoid this, make a detailed shopping list before you go to the store, and stick to it. Shopping with a list helps you avoid distractions and focus on purchasing only the essentials. Don’t shop when you’re hungry, as it can lead to impulse purchases, especially of high-cost snack foods.
Wasting food is like throwing money away.
Reduce Food Waste
Be mindful of portion sizes and use leftovers creatively. They can be used in casseroles, soups, for snacks, and in lunch boxes. You can also freeze leftovers for another meal to avoid spoilage. If there is food waste in your household, ask yourself why. Are you buying food in the right quantities? Is food refused or left on the plate? Are servings too large? Is the food tasty?
In conclusion…
Rising food prices may be frustrating, but with careful planning, it’s possible to make the most of your grocery budget while maintaining a nutritious diet. By planning meals, shopping strategically, and minimizing food waste, you can stretch your food dollar and take control of your kitchen costs.
– Kelly Ang, University of North Florida Nutrition Intern
Want more?
Check out our previous edition of Food for Thought!
When managing diabetes or striving for steady blood sugar, one acronym to remember is FFP – Fiber, Fats, and Protein. Learn how to manage diabetes and improve your diet with our previous edition of Food for Thought!
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