Health & Fitness
I cut my grocery bill by 30% this summer!
Think eating healthy is expensive? Well, it is and it isn't. Read about how I cut my bill by 30% this summer.
It’s no secret that clean eating — eating fresh, mostly organic, unprocessed foods — is not the most economical way of eating. Let’s face it, it’s much cheaper to grab boxes, cans, prepared food, and run through the drive thru.
But you know, in your heart of hearts, that eating clean is the healthiest and most economical way in the long run to feed yourself and your family. The financial savings from reduced medical and pharmaceutical bills has been well documented. And, the mental and emotional savings just from feeling alive and well is immeasurable.
The question is how to make that happen.
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How I save money on groceries
I’ve made changes in my overall expenses to accommodate for my increased food bill. I have a friend in the nutrition coaching business who’s made healthyeating a priority for his family of five. The compromise is that while they could afford new cars and lavish vacations, they’ve chosen to drive the same car for years and years and limit vacations to shorter trips, or not each year.
I also like to find deals and specials, so I look at grocery store circulars (online and in print) and keep my eye out for the best prices. I know where to get the best price on most things I buy–and it’s usually not at one store.
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I shop seasonally. If something isn’t in season and the price is jacked up, unless I need it for a special occasion, I’m not buying it now. About a month ago, I was looking at watermelons. Watermelons are just now coming into their season. Last month, I was looking at watermelons that were $5-6. Those same watermelons are now $3. I got a watermelon last week. And it was worth the wait!
On the flip side, if something is in season, and is rare for the area, the price may still be jacked up. I was looking at organic cherries. Cherries are one of those fruits that you need to buy organic. They were $6 per pound! I didn’t need cherries that badly.
But my all-time favorite and best way to save on groceries during the summer, and the way I’ve saved 30% THIS SUMMER, is by shopping the farmer’s market. I’ve written about why you should shop the farmer’s market, so check out that article here. Now, every market won’t generate that much savings. I can go to one market and pay $3 for a bundle of kale, and pay $2 at another market. Generally speaking though, you will still save compared to organic prices at big box grocery stores.
If you’re in the St. Louis area, I’ll be at the Ferguson Farmer’s Market this Saturday, July 27 at 9 am. I consider this my go-to market. I’ve found the best quality and prices there. I’ll spend a little time giving my tips for shopping the farmer’s market, then you’ll be on your own to shop. Support local!
By the way, the image above is a bag of kale from me and my sister’s garden. That’s been a savings too!
Your turn
How do you save on groceries? In the summer, do you have a favorite side-of-the-road vendor or farmer’s market you like to visit?
Elaine King is a Holistic Health Coach. She works with women who want to make health a priority. They understand that being healthy is about more than what they eat. The connection to their thoughts and inner spirit is of importance as well. Elaine does individual and group coaching, leads wellness workshops, and speaks for various organizations. Dowload a free copy of her e-Guide: Six Steps to a Simply Healthy Jumpstart here.