Using Shopping Lists

We all take a different approach to grocery shopping. Some prefer to make multiple trips to the grocery store throughout the week and purchase a few things at a time. Others prefer to make a trip to the grocery store only once per week to pick up all of the necessary items. However you prefer to shop, creating a shopping list can be beneficial for many reasons.

First, groceries can add up and stores are filled with items that are very tempting. When you have a list with only the items that you need, you will be less likely to make expensive and unnecessary purchases, which will help you to stay within your shopping budget. Meals prepared at home are also less expensive than pre-packaged or take-out foods. Avoiding impulse purchases and making meals at home can help you to save hundreds throughout the year.

Through carrying a shopping list, you can not only save money but simply taking the time to make a shopping list can help with your meal planning. Making one trip to the grocery store a week can motivate you to plan the meals that you will be preparing throughout the week, without forgetting any important ingredients. Getting into the habit of creating a shopping list will make it easier to try new recipes since you will be able to easily add the ingredients to your list. As the week becomes hectic with work and family activities, you can feel assured that you already have the foods and ingredients that you need, without having to rush to the store before dinner to try a new recipe. Keep in mind that meals prepared at home are typically much healthier than restaurant meals. By making your meals at home, you will know exactly what you are eating and what it contains, which can affect our bodies.

Your shopping list is really the first step to healthy eating. What you put on your shopping list is what you will buy, and therefore is what you and your family will be eating. Take a look at your shopping list for the week or save your lists if you go shopping multiple times per week. What types of foods are you and your family eating? Similar to a Food Diary, you will be able to reflect on those foods and try to tweak your eating habits to start eating healthier. Are you purchasing lots of sugary, processed foods or are you purchasing a wide variety with fruits, vegetables, dairy and lean meats? Grocery shopping with a healthy list will help you to bring home foods that are better for your body.

An example of Meals Matter’s Shopping List is below.

Try it out today to save money, better plan meals, and start eating healthier!