The Friends of AIDS Foundation/Topics/Eating Well on a Budget

In today’s economy, the cost of living necessitates careful budgeting. Eating well means more than
just eating healthy; it means eating nutritionally balanced meals within your budget. The good
news is that it is possible to maintain a healthy diet without having to damage your wallet. The key
is to plan ahead. Below are some tips that will help you to accomplish this.

The first thing to remember is to never shop on an empty stomach. People tend to buy more
when they are hungry. Make sure to eat before you head out to the store.

Always check your refrigerator and cabinets for the staples that need to be replaced prior to
going to the store.

Always make a shopping list of items needed, bring it to the store, and stick to it. Do not
purchase items that you may not use just because they are on sale. You will not be saving
any money if no one eats what you purchased.

Read weekly store ads to compare prices and see if what you need is on sale.

Clip coupons for the food you will want to buy. Swap coupons with neighbors, family, or
friends you see on a regular basis. Remember people have different tastes and diets. They
may have coupons they will not use but you can and vice versa. Check the web. Internet
advertising is big business and many manufacturers/ stores have coupons you can print out.

Try to shop once a week. This makes it easier for you to not fall victim to impulse buying.

Buy a selection of food from the Food Guide Pyramid. Grains, cereals, breads, pasta and rice
cost less.

Buy fruits and vegetables when they’re in season. Local farmer’s markets may cost less. They
can also be purchased frozen or canned and will last longer.

A nutritionally balanced diet is essential in maintaining your health. Consider buying proteins
that are less expensive. Ex: Beans instead of meat.

Consider purchasing store brands. They are similar to the name brand products and are
usually cheaper.

Stock up on sale items of the products you use regularly.

If you are going to use a credit card, only charge the amount you can afford to pay at the
end of the month.

Check the local churches and community centers. Many offer food assistance in the way of
food pantries.

Spending more than you have budgeted for will cause you to not have money left to pay other bills.
Remember to buy only what you need and have an enjoyable shopping experience!

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