Shopping – you either love it or you hate it! We all need to buy groceries at some point each week. Of course, there are lots of different ways to shop, and lots of different things to buy. Whether you love it or loathe it, there are a few healthy habits you could adopt to make shopping more cost effective, time efficient, and physically beneficial. Try some of these next time you need to pop to the store:

Walk
Most of us live within a couple of miles of a store that sells many of the things we need to buy each month. Walking there and back each time can be a very healthy approach. You’ll get the fresh air and exercise you need to stay fit and sleep better at night. If you walk, you won’t want to carry much back, so it will also prevent you buying more than you need! This could be one of the most cost effective and healthy approaches to shopping you might find.

Do A Deal
Those that love living frugally will do their best to never pay full price for anything. This might be quite challenging outside of the sales season. Fortunately, there are several approaches you might take. The first is discount coupons. Sign up with your favorite stores and pick up customer loyalty cards wherever you go. You can also find vouchers for discounts online at websites like DontPayFull.com for some of the biggest brands you know. Market stalls, dealerships, and independent traders might be more willing to haggle than you think. Can you do a deal?

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When You Need It
Fashion is a big weakness for lots of people. You might see a blouse in the store window and just have to have it. Unfortunately, this can easily get out of hand. If you’re regularly buying items that weren’t on your shopping list or in your budget, it’s time to change your habits. Instead, regularly clear out your closet. If you replace old for new, you’ll know you’re only buying what you need. It’s a great way to avoid clutter and excess clothing! If tech is your weakness, try the same approach. Buy when it’s broken, or sell the old one before investing in the latest model.

 

Food – Friend or Foe?
Food waste can be heartbreaking. Nobody likes to throw food in the trash, but most of us are guilty of it every month. Produce that has reached its sell-by date or wasn’t stored correctly can be wasted. Instead, plan your meal menus ahead of your shopping. Weigh out correct portions, so you know how much you have and how much you need. If you think it might spoil, cook in big batches and freeze for later. This can also help to encourage you to eat more fresh foods and fewer processed items.

 

Choosing healthier approaches to your shopping habits might save you money, time, and even help you improve your fitness. All of this can add up to a healthier lifestyle as well. You might spend less, waste less, and eat better than ever before. What will you try first?

 

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