We are all consumers of products. All of us spend our hard earned money on food and items we need to live. As inspiring Healthy Hippies we also take the health and safety of animals, the planet and ourselves into consideration.
 In the first part of the article we talked about the importance of doing your own research. One of the reasons this is so important is because of the media. The media loves to tell us what we "need" and "can not live without." Usually this information is just a media fad, it is always changing and is generally marketed by the company that makes the product. If you think you want or need something you saw, do research first. Speak with a medical professional. You can also find out about what results others are having. Pay close attention to your own body and its needs. Just because it worked for one person does not mean it will work for everybody.
  Lets Go Shopping!!!Trying to save money is something we are all aiming for. When looking at the price tag you will see the actual price and the unit price. The unit price is usually found in a small block to the left of the actual price.  The unit price will tell you how much you are paying per unit. For example if you are buying something measured in quarts, the unit price will tell you how much you are spending per quart.  This is a great way to compare prices to see if you are getting the best deal.
    A few tips to help you save is make a list of the 20-30 items you buy the most and then compare those prices at the stores in your area.  Cutting coupons is always a good way to get more for your money. And when you buy things in bulk you generally are saving money and waste materials!
  For the most part if something is more expensive there is a reason. All natural and organic ingredients cost more to manufacture, using recycled and organic packing materials cost more to make, which will make the item more expensive. The good news is when you spend your money on these things you are supporting companies and farms that practice "green" lifestyles and you are keeping these businesses in demand! When you eat local and clean food, and use natural and organic products, be assured you are saving money on medical bills, and the alike.
  All of these ideas, labels, ingredients, researching, pricing, and staying on top of the media can feel like a job in itself.  Just practice these steps and it become easier to be a smart consumer of safe and healthy products.

  Written for The Healthy Hippie Magazine Dec/Jan ‘09 issue.

Photos from Google images. 

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