Monday, September 14, 2009

5 Everyday Items We Don't Need

By Lingxiao Li



If we take a look at those bills we paid in the past,
we would realize that we had spend hundreds of dollars on products we don't need. They might seem like small costs, but they can add up. Simple changes and a little preparation can help ustrim the amount we waste on basic necessities. Here are five examples:
1. Bottled beverages: We probably have a favorite drink and it's not tap water. If you drink too much of it, it will take a toll on your budget. You don't have to give up your favorite beverage completely. Just substitute half the amount you usually drink with tap water.
2. Food: The average person throws away $600 worth of food each year. To keep more money in your wallet instead of the trash can, evaluate the amount of food you eat and consider how much of it goes bad before you consume it. Create a shopping list with more realistic portions and look for deals at local grocery stores.
3. Diet products: Americans spend a lot of money buying meals, supplements and products that promise to help them lose weight, whether it's through a diet program or an impulse buy. These items are typically more expensive than the versions that don't make the same health claims. Read food labels and consider whether a food or product is worth the cost.
4. Vitamins: People spend a lot of money on vitamins that merely pass through their bodies every time they go to the bathroom. Instead of purchasing a wide array of supplements, figure out what your body needs and buy only those vitamins or, better yet, get those nutrients from food.
5. Cosmetics and toiletries: Cosmetic and hair care companies exaggerate the benefits of their products. Paula Begoun, author of The Beauty Bible, says that sunscreen is the only true anti-aging product. Creams that claim to get rid of cellulite or wrinkles usually don't.


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1 comment:

  1. I like this article. It is true that, we do spend bunch of money like this and don't keep track of it. By- Anshu Dixit.

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