Lifestyle of Diabetes 

This post isn’t diabetes related but because diabetic supplies and medical costs are outrageous, many of you are probably on a budget and need help. So, this week my husband recommended I share my advice how to grocery shop on a budget.

How does a person grocery shop on a budget? Here are some simple rules to follow:

1. Buy only what is on sale (with the exception of the staple items like milk, fruit and veggies that most people need weekly.) If you regularly use an item and see it’s on sale, (preferably food you can freeze or put in the pantry) buy it. If it’s not on sale, don’t buy it. Many weeks we don’t buy cereal or ice cream because my family knows I only  get sale items. You can always grocery shop on a budget and find some type of breakfast, lunch and dinner food on sale.
2. Look for “buy 1 get 1 free” items and buy them.
3. Use coupons – I always use 2 coupons with “B1G1F” items!
4. Many items are less expensive if you buy the store brand.
5. Don’t buy “wants” unless you are within your allotted dollar amount. (Skip the snack aisle and snack on carrots or raisins or something less expensive and healthier for you!)
6. Be careful at dollar stores! Although there are great deals, you can spend more on items. Know your prices!
7. Don’t buy expensive cuts of meat. I usually purchase chicken and turkey. Occasionally when on sale, I’ll buy something else. Find a local grocery store that sells meat inexpensively.

This past month, I finally saved more then I spent at the grocery store. First time ever! I was thrilled that I finally reached my goal. I’ve come close, but this time I spent $82.07. and saved $82.43! I scanned my receipt so you can see it here! Click on the photo for full size!

If you are on a really tight budget, start by purchasing essential items only. Milk, veggies, fruit, meat, rice/pasta (very inexpensive) and bread. The first few times you might want to take a calculator to check your total and confirm you are not going over your budgeted amount. If you see you still have money to spare, you can continue to add food items to your cart. But never add something that is not on sale.Most items at the grocery store will go on sale within the month.

10 years ago I shopped for myself with $25 a week. I was single and had to be very frugal since I had medical bills and needed to purchase my diabetic supplies.

In these economic times, we should all be careful how we grocery shop. If you are a coupon queen, I’d love for you to share your grocery shop tips with all of us! If you are still unsure how to grocery shop on a budget, leave me a comment!  If you want more information on being frugal or living on a budget, contact me!