Troy DeGroff of Earth Fare reminded us that like most grocery stores, natural food stores have stepped up their coupon and sale offerings.  Grab the sale flyer before you start to shop.  Also, look for coupons given by the store and the food manufacturers.  You may end up adjusting your grocery list to save money – yeah!  Food companies, yes, the ones with healthier products,  also have coupons on their websites. Print them out while making your shopping list.  

When you shop, go around the perimeter of the store for fresh food.  In the produce section, your best buys are likely to be the locally farmed fruits and vegetables. Buy in season, buy extra and freeze it for off season use. Even when organic squeezes your budget, there are three foods that are must buys for your health: hormone and antibiotic-free/free-range meats, eggs and dairy.  When meat is on sale, buy in quantity and freeze for future use.  The health of your family depends on this.

Buy in bulk.  Healthy rice, nuts, beans and so much more are cheaper when you fill your own bag. 

Portion control!  Plate sizes have grown with our waistlines.  We do not need to eat so much.

Get back to basics and start cooking again. There are lots of recipes for fast, easy and delicious healthier meals.  Check out www.earthfare.com for some great ones. Also, go to our website, www.FamilyFoodExperts.com.  Believe me, I don’t like to spend much time in the kitchen and I can do this!  Ask your kids to help, especially with the dishes.  Make “throw together” meals a family habit.  Many hands make for light work!

… for the health of your family,
ellen