Cost+Cutters

== Yes, we can cut costs and still cut calories! We came up with a lot of great ideas this week. I will try to list as many as I can remember. If there's anything you could think of that I have omitted, please feel free to add them. ==

1. Make A List
A. Create your list as you run out of staples. Keep it on your fridge. B. Check out the specials in the Supermarket. You could check the circulars in the Wed. paper or go to: [|www.mygrocerydeals.com] C. Plan your meals and create your list from the recipes that you want to prepare.

2. Think Power Foods
A. Power Foods are more economical and better for you than processed foods. B. Power Foods can be found around the perimeter of the store. Shop the perimeter and only go down the aisles where you need something. This will prevent impulse buying and save you money.

3. BYO (Bring Your Own)
A. To cut down on costs “bring your own! B. Bring a thermos of coffee from home to drink throughout the day. C. Bring a small cooler and pack it with sugar-free soda. D. Bring a good healthy lunch instead of going out or ordering in. You could easily make your own wrap and save a bundle.

4. Buy Bulk
A. Freeze the extras or share with family and friends. B. Choose a single item to use for different dishes through the week. C. Turn ground beef or turkey into chili, burritos and a topping for baked potatoes. D. Brown all of your bulk ground beef or turkey and freeze it in portions to add to your favorite casserole when needed.

5. Raid the freezer or go canned
A. Buy frozen when not in season. More economical. B. Frozen veggies could be added to any casserole to bulk it up and make it go further.

6. Be a Bean Counter
A. Beans are a delicious, economical source of protein and fiber and low in fat. B. Beans are very versatile. Can be used in a variety of ways. Add to salads, pasta salad, chili, casseroles, rice, etc. C. Check out the recipes of the weeks for bean recipes.

7. DIY (Do It Yourself)
A. Grate your own cheese. B. Clean and shred your own lettuce. C. Chop your own fruit salads instead of buying pricey packaged convenience items. D. Slice your own apples and put the in water with Fresh Fruit instead of buying the sliced. E. Cut your own pineapple. You're paying about double the price to buy it already cut.

8. Buy in season
A. Enjoy seasonal fruits and veggies now, but save some to freeze to enjoy all year. B. Fruits such as Strawberries (most popular this time of year) can be frozen by placing on a cookie sheet. Freeze and then place in freezer bags. C. Pick your own is the most economical way to go. D. E-tools features a frequently updated column called Market Fresh, which highlights seasonal produce.

9. Patrol Portions
A. Weigh and measure your foods for a couple of weeks. B. Smaller portions means more leftovers for another meal.

10. Clip coupons
A. Strategic shoppers clip coupons and then remember to take them with to the supermarket. B. [|www.weightwatchers.com/sensiblefoods] for featured offers and recipes. C. Use your clipped coupons to help create your shopping list. D. Clip coupons from the newspaper, magazines, and online.