10 Smart Choices When Shopping for Fruits and Veggies
You can include fruits and vegetables in your diet on any budget. Eating nutritious foods can improve health and reduce disease risk. There are many cost-effective ways to meet your fruit and vegetable needs.
Celebrate the season
Use fresh fruits and vegetables that are in season. They are easy to get, have more flavor, and are usually less expensive.
Why pay full price?
Check the local newspaper, online, and at the store for sales, coupons, and specials that will help cut food costs.
Stick to your list
Plan out your meals ahead of time and make a grocery list. You will save money by buying only what you need.
Try canned or frozen
Compare the price and the number of servings from fresh, canned, and frozen forms of the same veggie. Canned and frozen items may be less.
Buy small amounts frequently
Some fresh fruits and vegetables don't last long. Buy small amounts more often to ensure you can eat the food without throwing any away.
Buy in bulk
For fresh fruits and vegetables you use often, a large size bag may be the better buy.
Store brands = savings
Opt for store brand, if possible, you will get the same or similar product for a cheaper price.
Keep it simple
Buy items in their simplest form. Pre-cut, prewashed, ready-to-eat foods are convenient but cost more.
Plant your own
Start a garden!
Plan and cook smart
Prepare and freeze vegetable soups, stews, or other dishes in advance. This saves time and money. Overripe fruit is also great for smoothies or baking.
Source: www.MyPlate.gov
Happiness: The Secret to a Longer Life
The connection between happiness and health is widely recognized. Positive emotions like joy and gratitude enhance overall health and well-being and contribute to longevity. So, what can you do to improve your happiness?
Check out these tips that you can incorporate into your lifestyle for a better chance of happiness and good health:
Get involved in social activities
Sign up for a weekly exercise class like Bingocize or join the bridge club.
Appreciate the simple pleasures in life
Such as keeping to a regular schedule, taking a walk in the park, or spending time with a friend.
Learn not to sweat the small stuff
Try to look at the bigger picture and spend your energy on what really matters to you. When you feel stressed, try using mindfulness, meditation, or exercise to help you relax.
Do something to help others
Volunteer at your local shelter or check in regularly with a neighbor who lives alone.
Find value in your work – Whether it is your career, your hobbies or volunteer opportunities, it can help to look at your strengths in your everyday activities.
Source: www.mhanational.org