Eating healthfully can sometimes be expensive, but with some planning, you can easily follow the South Beach Diet and enjoy the foods you love without breaking your budget. Here are five ways to cut down on spending at the grocery store:

1. Make a list. Before you hit the grocery store, plan the meals you’ll be making for the next two or three days, or even the next week, so you can pick up all the ingredients you’ll need.
2. Buy in bulk. While buying foods in bulk is initially more expensive, it can often save you money in the long run. But be careful — if you're buying fresh foods in bulk, make sure you eat them before they spoil. Otherwise, you're wasting money.
3. Go for beans. It doesn't get any cheaper or healthier than whole, dried beans. You can usually buy a one-pound bag of beans for less than two dollars. Beans can be used in soups, salads, chili, or be served as a side dish.
4. Shop at your local farmers’ market. The foods there are fresher than at the supermarket and often cost less in season. Tip: If you’re on a tight budget, wait until the late afternoon to do your shopping — this is when you are likely to get better bargains, since many vendors prefer not to truck their produce back to the farm.
5. Opt for simple meals. One of the best ways to save money is to keep your meals easy. Serve grilled or broiled fish, meat, or poultry as the main dish, for example, with a steamed vegetable and a side salad. Make extra and use the leftovers for lunch the following day.
6. Strategize ways to save. Familiarize yourself with your grocery store circular to see what’s on sale and take advantage of coupons. You’ll be surprised at how much you can save if you make the effort!

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