American paychecks have remained flat-line for a while now, even as prices continue to rise. Food prices have been specifically unstable of late, because of global warming, crop shortages and many other factors. There are steps you can take to reduce those costs, however.
Get your meals at home
It is always less expensive to cook and eat at home than it is to pay somebody else to do it. You will know precisely what is in your meal, and it will cost less than going out to eat.
If time is an issue, you can usually get a crockpot. It takes about two minutes to throw some vegetables and meat in the crockpot for a delicious meal later.
Not as much meat
I am not suggesting going vegan. That could be costly too -- not to mention complicated -- getting just the right balance of grains and legumes to make healthy proteins. But meat is expensive, and most Americans most likely can afford to eat less of it anyway for heart health. A vegetarian meal a few times a week could help your pocketbook. Or how about making a stew rather than eating a steak and make the beef go farther?
Keep away from organic
Many people swear by the health advantages of organic foods, but there's little evidence to support those claims. Regardless, organically grown items are always more expensive than the commercially grown goods in the produce section. You may also consider using frozen rather than fresh vegetables. They are cheaper, they keep longer and are just as nutritious.
Keep body hydrated
If you are worried about drinking tap water, just get a filter. Always avoid soda pop and other sugary drinks, and just stick to water. It is free and will keep your body hydrated.
Those seeking to save money on alcohol should only drink it socially and never drink it at home. That is another way to cut back.
Save with no prepackaged foods
Sure, the packager did most of the prep work for you, but at what cost? Like fast food, commercially prepared foods are much more expensive and much less healthy than if you made the same dish at home from scratch.
Plan menus, make shopping lists
Make sure you take a look at your pantry and plan your meals. You really should prepare them every two weeks to go along with whenever you get paid. Start by preparing meals with what you already have and go shopping for the rest. Get generic brands at the store, and make sure you stick to a list to avoid impulse getting.
If you want to cut back expenses more, you can go to a Costco or Sam's Club.
Avoid additional costs at lunchtime
It is healthier to make a lunch at home instead of going out, so make sure you do that whenever possible.
Think to the future
You can plant a garden and get other people to do it too. This will help you save a lot of money, specifically if you swap with friends.
Get your meals at home
It is always less expensive to cook and eat at home than it is to pay somebody else to do it. You will know precisely what is in your meal, and it will cost less than going out to eat.
If time is an issue, you can usually get a crockpot. It takes about two minutes to throw some vegetables and meat in the crockpot for a delicious meal later.
Not as much meat
I am not suggesting going vegan. That could be costly too -- not to mention complicated -- getting just the right balance of grains and legumes to make healthy proteins. But meat is expensive, and most Americans most likely can afford to eat less of it anyway for heart health. A vegetarian meal a few times a week could help your pocketbook. Or how about making a stew rather than eating a steak and make the beef go farther?
Keep away from organic
Many people swear by the health advantages of organic foods, but there's little evidence to support those claims. Regardless, organically grown items are always more expensive than the commercially grown goods in the produce section. You may also consider using frozen rather than fresh vegetables. They are cheaper, they keep longer and are just as nutritious.
Keep body hydrated
If you are worried about drinking tap water, just get a filter. Always avoid soda pop and other sugary drinks, and just stick to water. It is free and will keep your body hydrated.
Those seeking to save money on alcohol should only drink it socially and never drink it at home. That is another way to cut back.
Save with no prepackaged foods
Sure, the packager did most of the prep work for you, but at what cost? Like fast food, commercially prepared foods are much more expensive and much less healthy than if you made the same dish at home from scratch.
Plan menus, make shopping lists
Make sure you take a look at your pantry and plan your meals. You really should prepare them every two weeks to go along with whenever you get paid. Start by preparing meals with what you already have and go shopping for the rest. Get generic brands at the store, and make sure you stick to a list to avoid impulse getting.
If you want to cut back expenses more, you can go to a Costco or Sam's Club.
Avoid additional costs at lunchtime
It is healthier to make a lunch at home instead of going out, so make sure you do that whenever possible.
Think to the future
You can plant a garden and get other people to do it too. This will help you save a lot of money, specifically if you swap with friends.
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