Eating on a budget is tough enough. But eating healthfully on a budget?

Actually, it’s not as tough as you may think, says Peggy Spohr, a clinical dietitian with Wishard Health Services. Figuring out how to stock your grocery cart with good-for-you foods instead of foods that just taste good is the first step.

“The same people who say that they don’t have enough money to buy a pound of strawberries, may have bags of chips or soda in their carts,” she says. “It’s a matter of making wise choices.”

Here are Spohr’s tips for a smart grocery visit that won’t break your budget:

1Don’t shop on an empty stomach:Studies have shown that we’re more likely to buy foods on impulse when our stomachs are growling.

Draw up a list before you go to the store, make sure your stomach is full, and stick to your plan, Spohr says.

2Prioritize fruits and vegetables in season:“Produce that’s in season is typically less expensive,” Spohr notes. Right now, cherries, spinach and spring lettuces are all in season, making them quite affordable. Later in the season, corn will be less expensive.

For fruits and vegetables that are not in season, consider canned or frozen varieties. Just check to make sure that they’re packed or canned without salt or sugar, Spohr says.

3Keep spices on hand:A container of spice may seem quite costly for something that small, but a few ounces of most seasonings can go a long way, Spohr notes.

Having spices can help you save money on more expensive foods, she suggests. Instead of buying instant flavored oatmeal, purchase plain oatmeal and add your own cinnamon.

4Buy in bulk:Foods like meat and poultry tend to be cheaper if you buy them in large quantities, Spohr says. For instance, a 10-pack of chicken breasts will likely cost less per breast than one or two on their own.

So if you live alone, buy a larger tray and then bag the leftovers and freeze them.

—- Shari Rudavsky