5 Tips to Follow When You Are Grocery Shopping

Grocery shopping can be an exhausting, daunting chore for someone who is short on time or unprepared for the endless options and temptations that lie within the store's aisles. You can tackle this weekly errand and make it a more pleasurable activity while saving yourself time and money; all it takes is some basic planning and preparation before you enter the store.

Buy Healthy Foods

• Stick to fresh, healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean meats, low-fat dairy products and whole grains. Stay on the perimeter of the store as much as possible. This is where you will typically find fresh produce, meat and dairy products. The middle aisles traditionally include most of the junk foods that you would be better off avoiding. Prepared, frozen and processed foods may be convenient, but they are often loaded with fat, calories, sugar or sodium.

Save Money

• To cut your costs, use printed or online coupons and check your store's sale ads. Sign up for stores' frequent shopper cards, which are usually free and may allow you to earn points or rewards. Pay attention to the foods that are on sale. If possible, plan your meals around those foods or use them as substitutes for things you typically eat. Stay away from prepared meals. Instead, cook the same meal from scratch at home for much less money.

Save Time

• Save time and money by using a grocery list. Think about what meals you want to prepare for the week and make a list of the items you will need. List the items according to the layout of the store to save time. When you go to the store, buy only what is on your list. Cooking your own meals and having a plan for the week can help keep you organized and to stay on track if you are trying to incorporate healthier foods.

Do Not Shop Hungry

• Grocery shopping when you are hungry is the best way to set yourself up for failure. You are more likely to buy unhealthy foods, buy more food than you need and waste more time if you are hungry. Eat before you leave the house so you are less likely to be tempted by foods that are bad for your wallet and your waistline.

Ask Questions

• Grocery store employees are there to help you. They know the layout of the store best, so if you cannot find an item, ask where it is located. If the store is out of an item you need, ask an employee if there is more in the back. Also, if the store is out of an item that is on sale, do not be afraid to ask for a rain check so you can get the deal when the item is in stock again.