Article Surfing Archive

1. Eliminate junk food - gawd! This was very hard at first!

Doing your shopping on your own is the easiest way to shop, as children and sometimes spouses are usually the ones requesting junk food. Gotta blame someone, right?

Shopping alone takes some discipline and, once you get the hang of it, will ensure that you only buy foods your body really needs for optimal health.

2. Buy and drink water or milk instead of soft drinks.

You can still enjoy your favorite drinks at a sporting event or night out, although you should cut the number you imbibe. When shopping, stick with the smallest size of that taboo drink, to save money and calories. And, don't buy the diet cola hype.

Read the label for ingredients and look for syrup content. That's where the fat devils are hiding.

Children and even adults need milk or milk products on a daily basis. Milk will also help you feel stronger, provide calcium for healthy bones and healthy teeth, and you'll sleep better. Calcium has relaxing qualities. Remember the advice - drink a warm glass of milk before bed?

3. Buy fruits in quantity.

When they are in season, buy fruits in quantity and freeze any extras. You can buy several pounds this way, and freeze extras to have them when the fruit goes out of season. Wash the fruit well, remove any spoiled pieces, dry thoroughly, then freeze in plastic zipper bags.

You can even buy apples in season and not freeze them. Just place in a plastic bag in the bottom drawer of the fridge. They will stay fresh for weeks on end. My wife does this and we have fresh apple pies all Winter.

4. Meats and beans are a super health source.

Meats and beans are the best sources for protein. Lean meat is more expensive than meats with a lot of fat but here's a tip: Buy the cheap stuff, fry the meat in a pan with some water in it so the fat floats. I like to season the meat while it's frying. The water floats off the excess seasoning. Then, scoop the meat onto a plate lined several paper towels thick to soak up the grease and you have your own version of low-fat meat.

Canned beans are always a great deal as well, as they give you protein at a great low price. Buy the cheapest store brand too. Likely they were canned by a name brand company anyway.

5. Use beans as a substitute in meals.

You should use beans a substitute for meat frequently. There are several varieties. Prepare them in a crock pot so, when you get home, they are ready to consume.

The USDA recommends eating beans at least 4 times per week. If you experience gas after eating beans you should try washing them, covering them with water, bringing the water to a boil, then draining it off and refilling the pot.

6. Cast your fishing line at the dock or at the market.

If you live in a coastal area or an area where fish abound, make that an integral part of your diet. You can catch them from the lakes or rivers, saving money in the process but don't overdo it. Mecury, you know? Once a week is good.

7. Peanut butter isn't just for kids.

Peanut butter is great for those on a budget. as it's popular with almost everyone. You can use it for sandwiches instead of eating hot dogs. It does need to be refrigerated. Bigger jars can last you for weeks.

One word of caution. Peanut butter contains some mold. If you are allergic, well, you probably already know it and already know to not overdo it. In Canada, candy bars no longer contain peanuts. Imagine that!

8. Water, water, and more water.

You should fill up with foods that have a high content of water. Watermelon, salads, and even sugar free gelatin are all great examples. Water is nature's elixir and a source of life to the body.

Eating healthy is a lifestyle you will not regret. You can eat healthy for just a few bucks, which makes it perfect for those of us on a budget.

Now, you know, you really don't need a lot of money to have the lifestyle and health you've always wanted.

Jim DeSantis
Library for Dummy's.com