Feeding a Family Healthy Meals on a Shoe String Budget

List of ways of how to feed a family healthy meals without breaking the bank:

1. Allow only one person to do the shopping-Statistics show when children or spouses accompany you, you tend to buy items you did not intend to buy, plus if you have one designated person that person will have control over all items that are brought in to the home or apartment.

A Few Shopping Recommendations:

o Plan every meal before going to the store.
o Purchase only those items that you need for the planned meals-Being prepared increases the chances of getting only what you need for your meal.
o Do not buy snacks, desserts, etc. make them. Not only can you control what ingredients are in your snacks you can teach children how to follow recipes and make healthier dishes on a shoe string budget
o Buy large portions and break them up into small portions. Most of the time when you purchase in large quantities you save money. Be astute; don't purchase the large size if there isn't a considerable savings.
o Buy very little processed boxed foods-Processed foods are known for high calories and unhealthy ingredients. If you can avoid it do not purchase prepared shelf items.

2. Prepare meals in advance-What happens to a busy family is everyone comes home tired and hungry and the easiest thing to do is reach for the quickest versus the healthiest meal. If you prepared your food in advance all you have to do is heat it and eat it.

3. Cook soups or casseroles in large amounts and freeze for later meals. This is perfect for your shoe string budget because soups are delicious year round.

4. Drink water versus pops and expensive juices. There is nothing better than plain water to keep your body hydrated and refreshed. And this all you need to wash down those healthy meals.

5. Be a wise consumer, because you are now operating on a shoestring budget you need to use tactics that will guarantee saving a dollar, i.e.:
o Shop at discount stores, even the dollar store, Yes I said the dollar store. You will be surprised what they have to offer for only $1
o Use coupons when possible
o Do not pay full price for anything-Unfortunately because prices change so rapidly if an item is not on sale there is a great possibility the price has been raised to compensate for those items that are on sale.
o Purchase fresh fruits and vegetables. If on sale purchase, cook and freeze for later usage. If not on sale buy small amounts. Get only what is needed for planned meals or snacks.
o Always, Always, Always read labels. It is important to know the following: Calorie count, fat content, Sugar and salt count and what unhealthy ingredients it contains.

6. Practice portion control. Serve every member appropriate portions to control overeating. Meats should be 4-6 oz, vegetables 1 cup or more if green leafy veggies, carb only the size of a baseball. Be very conscious of this.

7. Last not certainly not least; have a budget before shopping. Put aside what you will spend for food for the month and do not go over that budget. When you are on a shoestring budget you must keep it lean, consistent and stick to it.

Hopefully the above tips will help you serve your family healthy meals every day and save at the same time. This is how you feed a family on a shoe string budget.

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