Feeding a family, or even just yourself, on a budget can be a challenge. Sometimes, after a trip to the grocery store, you may find yourself shocked by how much you spent and how little you actually bought. So, what are the best foods to buy when you come across a sale? To help you make the most of your grocery budget, we asked our editors to share their top picks for foods worth stocking up on when the price is right.
### Canned Foods
Canned goods are a pantry staple that you can keep for a long time. Items like tomatoes and beans are essential in many recipes, so it’s a smart move to stock up on them when they go on sale. Other canned vegetables like beets and potatoes, as well as canned tuna and fish, are also great options to buy in bulk when the price drops.
### Ground Meat
Ground beef, turkey, and pork are versatile ingredients that can be used in a variety of dishes like casseroles, pastas, and tacos. If you find ground meat on sale, consider buying extra and portioning it into zip-top bags for easy storage in the freezer. You can even use it to make large batches of pasta sauce or stew to freeze in family-sized portions for later.
### Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a household favorite that you can never have enough of. Whether you enjoy it on toast, in sandwiches, or by the spoonful, keeping several jars on hand is always a good idea. Look out for sales on peanut butter and stock up when you have the chance.
### Pasta
Pasta is a versatile and convenient meal option that you can never have too much of. When you see noodles on sale, grab a few extra boxes to keep in your pantry. Store-bought pasta has a long shelf life, so there’s no harm in stocking up when the price is right.
### Sauces
Sauces are essential for adding flavor to your dishes, so it’s a good idea to have a variety of sauces in your pantry. Whether you need soy sauce, pasta sauce, or barbecue sauce, buying extra when they’re on sale can save you money in the long run.
### Rotisserie Chicken
A rotisserie chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. If you find a rotisserie chicken on sale, consider buying it as it can provide several meals for you and your family.
### Dairy
Dairy products like cheese, milk, and yogurt are common household staples that are worth buying when they’re on sale. Stocking up on dairy products when the price is lower than usual can save you money in the long run.
### Butter
If you come across a sale on butter, it’s a good idea to grab an extra stick or two. Butter freezes well, so you can stock up when it’s on sale without worrying about it going bad.
By keeping an eye out for sales on these key food items, you can make the most of your grocery budget and ensure that you always have a well-stocked pantry. Happy shopping and happy saving! The Benefits of Outdoor Exercise
Exercise is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, and there are many benefits to getting outside for your workout routine. Whether you prefer running, cycling, hiking, or simply taking a walk, outdoor exercise offers a variety of advantages for both physical and mental well-being.
One of the primary benefits of outdoor exercise is the opportunity to soak up some vitamin D from the sun. Vitamin D is crucial for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation, and spending time outdoors can help ensure you’re getting enough of this important nutrient. Just 10-15 minutes of sun exposure a few times a week can provide the recommended daily amount of vitamin D.
Additionally, exercising outdoors can boost your mood and reduce stress levels. Being in nature has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind, and the fresh air and natural surroundings can help alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression. Studies have also found that outdoor exercise can enhance self-esteem and improve overall mental well-being.
Outdoor exercise also offers a change of scenery and can make your workouts feel more enjoyable and less monotonous. Whether you’re exploring a new trail, running through a park, or cycling along a scenic route, being outside can make your exercise routine more engaging and stimulating. This can help you stay motivated and committed to your fitness goals.
Furthermore, outdoor exercise can provide a more challenging workout than indoor activities. Running on uneven terrain, cycling against the wind, or hiking uphill all require more effort and engage different muscle groups than exercising on a treadmill or stationary bike. This can help improve your overall fitness level and prevent workout plateaus.
Finally, outdoor exercise allows you to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the world around you. Whether you’re watching the sunrise during an early morning run or admiring the fall foliage on a hike, being outside can foster a sense of awe and gratitude for the natural world. This connection to nature can be both grounding and inspiring, providing a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment in your workouts.
In conclusion, there are many benefits to exercising outdoors, from improved physical health to enhanced mental well-being. So next time you’re planning your workout routine, consider taking it outside and reaping the rewards of nature’s gym.
