Rebooting on a Budget

Here are some tips and tricks for making the most of your moolah on a Reboot:

Cut Out The Middle Man. Packaging, shipping, and storing produce is expensive for grocery stores. Find out if you have a local farmer’s market and head there for your delicious (and local) produce needs. Community Supported Agriculture is another terrific way to support local farmers, eat seasonally, and cut down on costs.

Grow Your Own. Okay so not all of us have a green thumb, or a backyard for that matter. But most of us could grow an herb garden in the the windowsill. Start with some rosemary, thyme, basil, or mint and continue from there!

Know the Dirty Dozen. It’s no surprise that in many parts of the world, organic is more expensive than conventional produce. The Dirty Dozen lists the 12 produce items that have been found to have the highest pesticide levels. If possible, purchase the organic version of these and go ahead and buy the conventional version of the rest. A good rule of thumb is: the thicker the skin of the produce, the lower the “need” for organic, as the pesticides aren’t as easily absorbed in into the produce. The exception to this rule is if you are juicing the rinds or peels of fruit, in which case organic is still recommended. But if you peel the produce before eating (like a banana) then no need for organic.

Double Up. It’s amazing how much more juice you can get out of your produce when you run the pulp through the juicer more than once. Just be sure to do this immediately after the first go. Every drop counts! If you really want to get creative, you can use the pulp in other ways. Learn about that HERE.

Stay In Season. If, for example, blueberries aren’t in season where you live, try another fruit or buy the frozen versions. If you use frozen fruits or veggies in your juice let it thaw first.

Plan Ahead. Having a grocery list planned before you go shopping will help keep you on track (especially if you are hungry while shopping). Planning ahead also helps you decide any substitutions you want to make in advance. For example: According to the latest Consumer Reports, Cabbage is one of the best deals on the market. Loaded with Vitamins A and C, only 16 cents per serving; $2.50 for one medium head, cabbage is a terrific cost-effective, nutrient dense option for juicing.

Keep in mind: Yes, you will probably being spending more for your fruits and vegetables during the Reboot but you won’t be spending your hard earned cash on your morning cup of java, or on Happy Hour bar tabs. In fact, you will most likely be eating out a restaurants significantly less than usual.

We’d love to hear from you! What are your tips for Rebooting on a budget?