Shana Spence says she’s an “eat-anything” dietitian: She encourages her clients to eat what they actually enjoy. When it comes to food, she says to focus on what nourishes your body, fills you up and doesn’t break the bank. Here are some tips to help you shop and keep your fridge stocked:
Embrace frugality
There’s no shame in knowing your budget and living within your means.
Add, don’t subtract
Diets don’t work!
- Look for ways to make favorite foods more fulfilling and nutrient dense
- Including protein or fiber-rich add-ons to favorite foods can help make these dishes more nourishing and filling
- You don’t have to cut something out of your diet completely
Don’t snub canned or frozen foods
Canned and frozen vegetables last longer than fresh produce so you don’t have to worry about them going bad.
- Check the ingredients list for any unwelcome additives, but they’re great if you need a cheap healthy boost in your meal.
Beware buzzwords
Buzzwords such as organic, non-genetically modified organism, low sugar and low fat can paint an inaccurate picture that some foods are substantially healthier than others
- Assess products for what’s inside them
- Figure out what nutrients you need and look for them in your food
Plan ahead and make a list
When you shop without a plan, it’s easy to buy more food than you need, or purchase ingredients you already have, leading to waste.
- A list helps you keep track of what you’re really eating and how much you’re spending.
Don’t forget coupons
Use a flyer from the front of the store to check out its weekly sales
- If you’re shopping at the same store, become a part of its member program to get further discounts
- Do your homework ahead of time and come with store and manufacturer coupons
