Page 21 - Workbook3E

3. Develop menus and compare costs
Consider everyone’s tastes, and build a collection of possible menus based on nutrition, preferences, and cost. Make choices you can
afford, live with, and enjoy. Also compare prices between your local supermarkets, the difference may be surprising. Then you can even design, print, and display your menus. Have fun and share in the creativity. Food can truly affect the condition of the human spirit; make good choices which will enhance your health and your quality of life.
Remember: Nothing is written in stone, you can also be flexible with changing seasons and tastes.
4. Keep things interesting
Men and women, young and old, do not “live by bread alone” but... without it for sandwiches, French toast, blueberry muffins, etc., life can get very dull! Nothing will shoot down your plan faster than boring meals or rebellion from loved ones. Magazines, TV, cookbooks, the internet, and friends are all great sources for new and innovative ideas. Creativity will help you stick to your goals, and variety is still the spice of life... and dinner!
5. Work together and follow through
Old habits die hard. Changing your world view takes consistent effort and follow-up, especially when it also affects your loved ones. Don’t get discouraged, be consistent and celebrate your improvements; they will motivate you to keep working toward your goals.
Four Key Focus Areas
“A headache is a message from the stomach to the brain saying, “Don’t send down anymore garbage!”
~ Philip Yordan
Suggestions to Get You Started
1. Avoid impulse buying. Featured items and “sales” may not always be the best buy.
2. Use as few convenience foods as possible. When feasible make your own mixes.
3. Try to limit your shopping to twice a month, then stay with your planned items.
4. Avoid wasting food or cooking too much. Be creative and vary preparation of leftovers.
5. Beware of expensive packaging; it can cost more than the product.
6. Consider making your own baked goods from scratch, or buying “day-old” on sale.
7. Reduce junk food purchases; they’re usually more expensive and the least healthy food.
8. Grow your own food; it’s fresh, has less pesticides, and can bring self-satisfaction.
9. Shop in bulk. Buying larger quantities almost always saves money. Also the local farmer’s market usually has fresher, more nutritious foods.
10. Build a food-storage supply using foods you use often and like to eat, and rotate it using the oldest first. You’ll have to shop less often and will be prepared in an emergency.
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