How to Plan Meals for a Month

A great way to organize your food consumption, save money and eat healthy is to plan your meals for a month.  You can use this method to improve your monthly budget as well.  Many families get paid monthly or bi-monthly.  Working your menu within this budget is an excellent way to save money and eat well.

Step One;  Make out your monthly menu.  Use a large block calender just for meals.  Write what you would like for each meal.  Always try to have something different.  Substitute a healthy cuisine for yourself and family.  For each meal, write the food items you need for every meal you plan.

Step Two;  Examine your food items in your daily menu.  Where can you purchase each item cheaper?  Can you find coupons for these items?  Write the cost out to the side of each item you need.  Now think to yourself.  Where can I save money on purchasing this item?

Step Three; Snack plan and last minute substitutions.  No matter on well you plan your meal, there will be times you have to make adjustments.  Have a quick serve meal that will get you through the meal.  Have some simple evening snacks.  Items like yogurt, fresh fruit and veggies with a low cal dip can go a long way for an evening snack.

Step Four;  Wrap and store all leftovers.  Put leftovers to use as soon as possible.  Leftovers are great for lunch the ext day.  Many leftovers can be combined with the main meal.  It just takes some simple planning.

Step Five;  Don't get caught up in brand names.  Your goal is to stick to your menu.  There is no difference in many items except for their name.

Step Six;  Avoid eating out.  If you like to eat out, write the date and place into your master menu.  Set aside the expense you will need to eat out.  However, it still needs to be included in your food budget for the month.  Be true to yourself.

Step Seven;  Keep a copy of your menu and your expenses.  You will use these the next month.  Try to cut costs while adding to your menu the next month.  Check newspaper ads for deals and coupons the following month.

Finally;  Stick to your plan.  Do not deviate from it.  At the end of the month review your progress and make adjustments to your budget.  If you save extra money doing this, place it in a special saving account.  You will be amazed at how much extra money you can grow.

Comments (3)

jswana said:

	... Very good plan for the planning meals for the month. I will have to take more time and do this. Thanks.
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October 07, 2011
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Soleil Robins said:

	... Nice job and very helpful!!!!
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October 09, 2011
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Margie Lynn said:

	... Great information, thanks for providing.
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October 18, 2011
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