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Write a Grocery List Before You Shop (and Follow It!)

Collin Dunn, Corvallis, OR, USA

Collin Dunn

By Collin Dunn
Corvallis, OR, USA | Sun Mar 23, 2008 01:21 PM ET

For even the most mindful eater, food shopping presents a plethora of temptations and tasty-looking treats. There are all manner of colorful signs, bright colors, and sweet deals, all designed to entice you to buy more than you might want to (and probably need). To save time, money, and the labor required to lug extra bags full of food home on your cart bike or other preferred transportation, make a list of what you know you need-and you know you'll eat-and stick to it.

Spend a few minutes in your kitchen, taking inventory, before you write your list. Once you know what you need for the next few days or week or more (depending on how often you shop regularly), sit down and write out your list, including weights and volumes of anything you don't usually buy (like milk or bread). That way, when you get to the store, you'll know what you need. Instead of defaulting to "I don't know if I have what I need, I'll just get it," you'll buy only what you need, and you can splurge on a special treat, like some yummy seasonal produce.

It's an easy way to make a more mindful connection to your food and what you fuel your body with each day, and it'll help you eat less and spend less, too. Just don't forget to bring your own bag.

Difficulty level: Easy

 
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