The moment is here, you decided to make a lifestyle change!  But, the healthy groceries you now want come with a hefty price tag. I understand this can be intimidating, especially if you're on a limited budget.  So, I'm excited to share 5 tips on how you can eat healthy and not bust your budget. With these tips you'll be able to start and maintain your new healthy lifestyle.

Let's get started with 5 Tips on How To Grocery Shop On A Budget!

Tip 1: Get Your Game Plan Together

Preparation is key, especially on a budget. Sit down and plan out your menu. Get your game plan ready.  Every Sunday,  I go online and check out all the grocery store weekly ads. For example, if chicken is on sale that week, lunch and dinner will be based around that item. A great way to make it fun and get the family on board: Have healthy dinner theme nights. For example, pick a new vegetable or fruit and plan a fun healthy dish.  This way you can introduce new items to what would normally be a boring meal.

Tip 2: Avoid Impulse Splurges

You have your game plan laid out and are now off to the store.  Make sure you eat before you go shopping.  Yes eat, never shop on an empty stomach.  Why? Because everything looks good and I mean everything. Before you know it, you have a grocery cart full of high calorie junk. Plus none of the items are originally on your list.   Do you hear the dollar signs adding up?  If you don't have a chance to eat, try this trick (which I do all the time) --chew gum.  It will distract you from the grocery store pitfalls --sugary drinks, quick and easy processed foods, and the candy that stares at you while you're checking out.  Focus on your list and your wallet will thank you for it! 

Tip 3: Buy food in season

If you shop for produce that's in season, you will save lots of money. Check out your local farmer's market, choose from a great selection of fresh fruits and veggies, without the price tag.  If you're ever in Atlanta check out the DeKalb Farmer's Market with food from all over the world.  Your theme nights will be the talk of the neighborhood! 

Tip 4: Shop the perimeter of the store first.

Stay on the outside, this way you will fill your cart with healthy foods. Have you ever noticed that the junk food tends to reside in the middle while fresh foods are on the outer aisles. Shopping the perimeter will put fresh produce and meat into your cart first, leaving little room for junk food, thus saving you money.  

Tip 5: Eat out less

Cook more meals at home. Reducing the amount of time you eat out  by 1 or 2 times a week can save you about $25 per week. This savings adds up quickly and gives you some extra money to spend on higher quality food.  Or in my case: Shoe shopping! 

Now you're ready to go grocery shopping and save a few dollars along the way! For more tips follow me on twitter and instagram @madisonjames404. Remember this is a lifestyle change, so  take it day by day.  Because, small changes turn into big changes!