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Planning Meals
Many of us made some New Year's resolutions to improve our lives. Some relate to financial planning; finding ways to save money around the house. Another might be to lose weight and lead a healthier life style. Many others have vowed to get organized in
2007 so they will have more spare time. |
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All three are worthy resolutions. Surprisingly, all three may be accomplished through the simple task of planning your family's meals for the week.
There is no set formula for meal planning; no mysterious trick that you have yet to discover. It is more a self-discipline, a routine task that impacts your household budget, frees time, and encourages healthy eating habits.
Here is how it works
Once a week, have a menu for all the dinners you will serve for the coming week. Try to include all the major entree groups such as beef, pork, chicken and pasta. Review each of the recipes and list all the items you need to purchase at the store. Be sure to include the vegetables and side dishes that compliment your meals. Your goal is to shop only once a week, so organization is key to your success.
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Shopping List
Next, have a weekly shopping list and stick to it. This is where you save money. Impulse buys are a thing of the past. With your dinners carefully planned, you will walk right by the expensive frozen dinners. Take your coupons and buy the store brand when you can to save even more.
Your shopping time will be shorter because now you are organized. You know what you want and where to find it. No more wandering around thinking, "What can we have for dinner tonight?" for you! You have planned an entire week's worth of meals. You are in and you are out - fast.
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Benefits
Eating at home results in a lower intake of fried foods and soft drinks, and will hopefully increase the consumption of fruits and vegetables.
DON'T FORGET ABOUT ALL THE MONEY YOU WILL SAVE! |
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Proper meal planning also has a nice side benefit; you will eat healthier. Home-prepared meals are healthier than restaurant meals. According to an article written by M. W. Gillman and published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, home prepared meals are higher in several nutrients, including fiber, calcium, folate, iron, vitamins B6, B12, C, and E. They are also generally lower in saturated and trans fats.
Save money, eat healthier, and have more free time - three resolutions that can be kept by planning your meals! It will also result in spending more time with your family! Good luck!
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