Defending champion Jannik Sinner retired on Sunday from the Shanghai Masters after suffering a leg injury during his third-round match against the Netherlands’ Tallon Griekspoor.
The world number two began to experience issues in the fourth game of the third set and initially tried to persevere.
However, Sinner eventually abandoned the match while trailing 6-7 (3/7), 7-5, 3-2.
https://sports.inquirer.net/643204/jannik-sinner-out-of-shanghai-masters-with-leg-injury
**The Chilling Truth: Exploring the Mental Health Benefits and Risks of Cold-Water Immersion**
Dr. Mark Harper recalls his first cold-water swim in the south of England 20 years ago. It was August, but the initial jolt from the plunge took his breath away. The shock to his system lasted a minute or two until he was “recombobulated and able to think about something other than the cold,” Harper says.
A surprise sensation soon replaced his discomfort. “I remember getting out of the water the first time and feeling so good,” Harper, an anesthesiologist who has since researched the potential risks and rewards of taking a nippy dunk, shared. “I wasn’t expecting that.”
—
### A Historical Perspective on Cold-Water Immersion
Claims about the benefits of cold-water immersion date back centuries. Thomas Jefferson, the principal author of the Declaration of Independence and the third American president, wrote toward the end of his life about using a cold foot bath daily for 60 years. He also owned a book published in 1706 on the history of cold-water bathing.
While evidence is building around the positive health effects of swimming in chilly water, bathing in ice, or taking cold showers, scientific confirmation is still lacking. However, Harper, who became a regular cold-water swimmer after his initiation, said there are strong signs that people can derive mental health benefits from the activity. He specifically mentioned a positive effect on depression and general well-being.
“For now, we have a very strong base, but not hard evidence, that cold-water immersion is effective for mental health,” Harper told The Associated Press.
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### Boosting Mental Health Through Cold Water
Harper said his own early experiences with cold-water swimming piqued his professional curiosity. As a physician, he wondered if the brief bodily shock had clinical uses for treating depression.
He cited the biological phenomenon of hormesis, in which a stressor introduced at a low dose creates a positive response. For example, muscles and bones under stress—such as during weight-bearing exercise—respond by strengthening and growing.
Harper acknowledged that the positive effects he’s observed may be partially due to the placebo effect, where people report benefits simply because they believe a treatment is effective. In the case of cold-water immersion, benefits may also come from social interactions, the exercise itself, or the accomplishment of meeting a challenge, which boosts self-confidence.
“Personally, I think it’s all of those things, and the cold has an additive effect,” Harper said. “I think we have a good physiological basis for that. The basic science tells us the cold has a very strong effect on the body.”
He added, “What we’re talking about is an intervention that produces beneficial effects on mental health. So in a way, it doesn’t matter which aspect is generating the positive effects.”
Harper cited a common reaction among first-timers who take the plunge: “The fact that I’ve done this means I can do anything.” He described cold-water swimming as “quite a confidence builder,” and noted that people stick with it because they enjoy it so much.
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### Know the Risks When You Start
Dr. Mike Tipton, a physiologist at the University of Portsmouth in England who has studied extreme environments, co-authored a paper with Harper titled *Cold Water Immersion: Kill or Cure*. The title reflects the dual nature of cold water—it can be either harmful or therapeutic depending on the circumstances.
“Like other environmental constituents such as pressure, heat, and oxygen, cold water can be either good or bad, threat or treatment,” they wrote after reviewing the research available at the time.
One clear finding: the activity presents dangers. Deaths from cold-water immersion are not uncommon. The shock of frigid water can cause people to hyperventilate and drown.
However, Tipton told The Associated Press that risks can be managed with common sense and precautions.
—
### How Cold, How Long?
You don’t need to go to extremes to gain potential benefits. Entering water at a temperature of 15 to 20 degrees Celsius (59 to 68°F) and staying for only a few minutes is sufficient.
“If the water is colder than that, you may get more benefit—but limit your exposure,” Tipton explained. “If you ask me what protocol you would follow if you thought this was going to be doing you good, I wouldn’t go in water much below 12°C (54°F), and I wouldn’t stay in for much more than two minutes.”
Both Tipton and Harper said that any benefits from cold-water immersion come from the body’s cold-shock response: the sudden drop in skin temperature, the release of stress hormones, the release of endorphins, and the anti-inflammatory effect.
Tipton cautioned against long spells in an ice bath. “Sitting in water for as long as I can fills me with horror,” he said. “This could destroy small nerves and blood vessels in extremities and could result in amputation the same way frostbite can.”
Harper, who has swum for as long as four hours in open water, advised vigilance. “People think it’s got to be super cold, super long, and the longer the better,” he said, “and that’s wrong.”
—
### Be Safe: Remember, You’re a Tropical Animal
Tipton emphasized that he’s not trying to be the “fun police” but suggested caution and a medical screening before taking the plunge. Humans are considered “tropical animals” who need to adapt to the cold and are better suited to warm conditions.
A human’s resting body temperature is about 36.5 to 37.5 degrees Celsius (97.7 to 99.5°F). Because of that, cold-water immersion is stressful and carries risks for both the cardiovascular and respiratory systems—not to mention the risk of drowning.
“We don’t want to stop people doing it,” Tipton said, “but we want to make sure they do it in a way that maximizes the benefits and minimizes the risks.”
He recommended swimming in life-guarded areas or with experienced outdoor swimmers. Knowing the body of water is essential; hazards might include tides, temperature, depth, and pollution.
“Understand that taking a tropical animal and putting it in cold water is probably the greatest stress that most people will experience in their life,” Tipton said. He suggested entering the water gradually rather than jumping in.
“Be sensible about it,” he advised. “Incremental is the key.”
—
**Cold-water immersion can offer promising mental health benefits if approached thoughtfully and safely. For those interested, start slow, stay aware, and listen to your body.**
https://www.phillytrib.com/news/health/cold-water-immersion-may-offer-health-benefits—-and-also-presents-risks/article_952a3db4-2e82-4319-b7de-3204f140454b.html
**Cardamom for Respiratory Health: 5 Benefits**
*By Simran Jeet | Oct 06, 2025, 05:01 PM*
Cardamom, the aromatic spice renowned for its culinary uses and health benefits, is also a powerful ally for respiratory health. Used for centuries in traditional medicine, cardamom can help improve your breathing in several surprising ways. Here are five key benefits that make cardamom a valuable addition to your wellness routine.
**1. Natural Expectorant Properties**
Cardamom acts as a natural expectorant, helping to clear mucus from the airways. This can be especially helpful during cold or flu seasons when congestion is common. By aiding in the expulsion of mucus, cardamom may reduce coughing and enhance overall respiratory function.
**2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects on Airways**
The spice contains anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe irritated airways. Since inflammation contributes to respiratory issues like asthma and bronchitis, cardamom’s ability to reduce inflammation may relieve symptoms and make breathing easier for those affected.
**3. Antioxidant Support for Lung Health**
Rich in antioxidants, cardamom protects lung cells from oxidative stress—a damaging process that can impair respiratory function over time. By neutralizing free radicals, the antioxidants in cardamom help maintain lung health and promote comfortable breathing.
**4. Enhancing Airflow with Aromatic Compounds**
The aromatic compounds in cardamom help open up nasal passages and improve airflow through the respiratory tract. This is particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with nasal congestion or allergies, as it naturally clears blocked passages and facilitates easier breathing.
**5. Supporting Immune Function for Respiratory Health**
Cardamom also boosts the immune system, which is crucial for defending the respiratory system against infections. Including cardamom in your diet can help strengthen immunity, keeping your lungs and airways healthy and reducing the risk of respiratory illnesses.
Incorporating cardamom into your daily routine is a simple yet effective way to support your respiratory health naturally. Whether added to teas, meals, or enjoyed as a spice, cardamom offers multiple benefits that can help you breathe better and stay healthier year-round.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/cardamom-for-respiratory-health-5-surprising-facts/story
By Anujj Trehaan | Oct 06, 2025 | 01:35 PM
**What’s the story?**
Seeds are tiny powerhouses of nutrition, making them an essential part of a healthy diet. They are packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Adding seeds to your daily meals can be an easy way to boost your nutrient intake without making drastic changes to your diet.
Here are five must-try seeds that can significantly enhance your daily nutrition.
### 1. Chia Seeds: The Fiber Powerhouse
Chia seeds are famous for their high fiber content, which helps with digestion and keeps blood sugar levels stable. These tiny black seeds are also loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health. Just two tablespoons of chia seeds give you 10 grams of fiber—more than one-third of the daily recommended intake for adults.
### 2. Flaxseeds: Rich in Omega-3s
Flaxseeds are an amazing source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for brain and heart health. They also provide lignans, which have antioxidant properties. To reap the maximum benefits, flaxseeds should be ground before consumption, as whole flaxseeds may pass through the digestive system undigested. Two tablespoons of ground flaxseeds provide about four grams of protein and eight grams of fiber.
### 3. Pumpkin Seeds: Nutrient-Dense Snack
Pumpkin seeds make for an excellent snack option as they are loaded with magnesium, zinc, and iron. These nutrients are essential for bone health, immune function, and energy production. Pumpkin seeds are also a good source of antioxidants that help reduce inflammation in the body. A quarter-cup serving gives you around 14 grams of protein and more than 40% of the daily recommended magnesium intake.
### 4. Sunflower Seeds: Vitamin E Boost
Sunflower seeds are packed with vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage by free radicals. They also provide healthy fats that promote cardiovascular health when consumed as part of a balanced diet. A quarter-cup serving offers about six grams of protein along with significant amounts of copper and selenium.
### 5. Sesame Seeds: Calcium Source
Sesame seeds are an excellent source of calcium, making them perfect for those who want to increase their intake without dairy products. These tiny white or black seeds also contain sesamin, which may help lower cholesterol levels naturally over time when consumed regularly as part of a balanced diet plan. One tablespoon provides approximately 88 milligrams (about 9% of the RDI) of calcium, along with other essential nutrients like iron and magnesium.
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Incorporating these seeds into your daily meals—whether by sprinkling them on salads, blending into smoothies, or enjoying them as snacks—can be a simple and effective way to enrich your diet with vital nutrients.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/must-try-seeds-for-daily-nutrition/story
**11 Children’s Deaths: Drug Watchdog Urges Strict Action Against Coldrif**
*By Snehil Singh | Oct 05, 2025, 11:11 am*
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) is gearing up to take stringent action against the manufacturers of Coldrif syrup following the tragic deaths of 11 children, allegedly due to contaminated cough syrups.
The CDSCO has directed the Tamil Nadu Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to initiate strict measures under serious offense regulations, according to a report by news agency ANI.
### National Conference and Government Response
In response to this crisis, the Union Health Secretary is set to hold a video conference with health officials from all states and Union Territories. The meeting’s objective is to discuss the rational use of cough syrups and enforce drug quality standards nationwide.
This step comes after the deaths of 11 children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan were linked to the consumption of contaminated cough syrups, raising serious concerns about drug safety.
### Ongoing Investigation and Risk-Based Inspections
The CDSCO has launched risk-based inspections of drug manufacturing units across six states — Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra. Investigators have collected 19 samples from these states for thorough testing.
A multidisciplinary team of experts is currently analyzing the samples to pinpoint the exact cause behind the deaths reported in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh.
### Sample Analysis and Findings
Earlier this week, the CDSCO confirmed that six samples tested by them, along with three from the Madhya Pradesh Food and Drugs Administration, were free from toxic compounds such as Diethylene Glycol (DEG) and Ethylene Glycol (EG). These substances are known to cause severe kidney damage.
However, it was clarified that the tested samples did not include the two suspicious cough syrups, including Coldrif, which remain under scrutiny.
### Regional Actions Against Coldrif Syrup
In light of these developments, several states have taken proactive measures against Coldrif syrup. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh have imposed bans on its sale. Telangana has issued a public alert urging people to stop using the product immediately.
These actions are part of broader efforts to ensure drug safety and uphold quality standards across India, following the heartbreaking loss of children linked to contaminated cough syrups.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to prevent further casualties.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/drug-watchdog-urges-strict-action-against-coldrif-makers-report/story
**11 Children’s Deaths: Drug Watchdog Urges Strict Action Against Coldrif**
*By Snehil Singh | Oct 05, 2025, 11:11 AM*
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) is set to take stringent action against the manufacturers of Coldrif syrup following the tragic deaths of 11 children, allegedly caused by contaminated cough syrups.
According to reports from ANI, the CDSCO has directed the Tamil Nadu Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to initiate strict measures under serious offense provisions to tackle this grave issue.
—
**Union Health Secretary to Convene National Conference**
In response to the crisis, the Union Health Secretary will conduct a video conference with health officials from all states and Union Territories. The discussion will focus on the rational use of cough syrups and enforcing drug quality standards nationwide.
This move follows the deaths of 11 children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, which have been linked to contaminated cough syrups.
—
**Ongoing Investigations and Inspections**
The CDSCO has launched risk-based inspections targeting drug manufacturing units across six states: Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
Authorities have collected 19 samples from these regions for comprehensive testing. A multidisciplinary team of experts is currently analyzing the samples to uncover the cause behind the fatalities in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh.
—
**Sample Analysis Results**
Earlier this week, the CDSCO confirmed that six of its tested samples, along with three from the Madhya Pradesh Food and Drugs Administration, were free from toxic compounds such as Diethylene Glycol (DEG) and Ethylene Glycol (EG). These chemicals are notorious for causing severe kidney damage.
However, officials clarified that these tested samples did not include the two cough syrups under suspicion, including Coldrif.
—
**Regional Actions Against Coldrif Syrup**
In light of the findings, several states have taken immediate action against Coldrif syrup. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh have imposed bans on its sale. Meanwhile, Telangana has issued a public alert advising citizens to discontinue use of the product.
These measures are part of a larger effort to ensure drug safety and quality across India, following the heartbreaking loss of young lives allegedly linked to contaminated cough syrups.
—
*Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/drug-watchdog-urges-strict-action-against-coldrif-makers-report/story
**11 Children’s Deaths: Drug Watchdog Urges Strict Action Against Coldrif**
*By Snehil Singh | Oct 05, 2025, 11:11 AM*
—
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) is set to take stringent action against the manufacturers of Coldrif syrup following the tragic deaths of 11 children, allegedly caused by contaminated cough syrups.
According to reports from ANI, the CDSCO has directed the Tamil Nadu Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to initiate strict measures under serious offenses to address the issue.
**National Conference to Address Drug Safety**
In response to the incident, the Union Health Secretary will conduct a video conference with health officials from all states and Union Territories. The meeting aims to discuss the rational use of cough syrups and enhance drug quality standards across India.
This initiative comes amid investigations linking the deaths of 11 children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan to contaminated cough syrups.
**Ongoing Investigation and Risk-Based Inspections**
The CDSCO has commenced risk-based inspections of drug manufacturing units in six states: Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
Authorities have collected 19 samples from these regions for comprehensive testing. A multidisciplinary team of experts is currently analyzing these samples to determine the cause of fatalities in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh.
**Sample Analysis Results**
Earlier this week, the CDSCO confirmed that six tested samples, along with three from the Madhya Pradesh Food and Drugs Administration, were free from toxic compounds such as Diethylene Glycol (DEG) and Ethylene Glycol (EG). These substances are known to cause severe kidney damage.
However, officials noted that these tested samples did not include the two cough syrups currently under scrutiny, including Coldrif.
**Regional Actions Taken**
Following the CDSCO’s findings, several states have taken decisive steps against Coldrif syrup. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh have banned the sale of the product.
Meanwhile, Telangana has issued a public alert advising people to stop using Coldrif syrup immediately.
These actions form part of a broader effort to safeguard drug safety and quality in India after the unfortunate deaths linked to contaminated cough syrups.
—
*Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/drug-watchdog-urges-strict-action-against-coldrif-makers-report/story
**17-Year-Old Boy Battles for Life After Severe Electrocution at Worksite in Panvel**
A 17-year-old Class XII pass boy has been fighting for his life in a coma after suffering a severe electrocution accident that led to the amputation of both his arms. The incident occurred in May this year at a pandal decoration site in Chikhale village, Panvel.
### Incident Details
The boy, identified as Shubham Andhale, was reportedly forced to work under unsafe conditions by contractor Pankaj Janeshwar Phadke. While working on a ladder, Shubham came into contact with a high-tension electric wire, which caused him to fall and sustain grave head injuries along with severe burns on his limbs. As a result, doctors had to amputate both his arms from the elbows.
“Since the incident on May 1, Shubham has remained in a coma-like state, unable to move or respond, with only his heart and eyes still functioning,” said his father, Kundalik Andhale, a rickshaw driver.
### Family Struggles Amid Medical Crisis
The family is struggling to cope with the mounting medical expenses. Andhale explained that they have exhausted all their savings and taken on heavy debt to afford Shubham’s treatment.
“My son was a bright student and talented in sports. He took up labour work to help improve our family’s living conditions. But now, he is fighting for his life and weighs barely 30 kg, down from a healthy 85-kg. We have already spent over ₹11 lakh on his treatment, yet the contractor who employed him has abandoned us,” Andhale shared emotionally. “We are pleading with the government and authorities to save my son’s future.”
### Treatment and Financial Assistance
Shubham spent three months in the ICU at MGM Hospital, Kamothe, on a ventilator. Due to unbearable expenses, the family had to bring him home. His mother and brother now feed him liquid nutrition through a nasal tube.
So far, the family has received ₹1 lakh in aid from Minister Pankaja Munde, and ₹50,000 from the pandal owner, who later distanced himself from further responsibility.
### Legal Action Against Contractor
Police have booked contractor Pankaj Phadke under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including:
– Section 125(a): Causing danger to human life through reckless actions
– Section 125(b): Acts endangering human life where grievous hurt is caused
– Section 289: Negligent conduct with respect to machinery
– Section 351(2): Criminal intimidation
Phadke is accused of employing a minor without proper safety measures and intimidating the family when they sought accountability for the accident.
### Family’s Ongoing Struggles and Plea for Help
Besides Shubham, the family has a 21-year-old elder son who is struggling to pay his college fees. Andhale added, “My wife used to earn ₹10,000 a month, but now she must stay home to care for our son. That source of income has also stopped.”
The family continues to appeal to authorities and well-wishers for support to help save Shubham’s life and secure his future.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/panvel-teen-loses-arms-slips-into-coma-after-electrocution-at-pandal-site-contractor-booked-under-bns-for-negligence
**MGM Medical College, Indore, Conducts Hands-on Training and Workshop on Real-Time PCR**
Indore (Madhya Pradesh): The Department of Microbiology and Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (VRDL) at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial (MGM) Medical College successfully organised a “Hands-on Training and Workshop on Real-Time PCR.”
The workshop was inaugurated and concluded by Dr. Arvind Ghanghoria, Dean and CEO of the college. Dr. Ghanghoria emphasized that the workshop aimed to enhance technical proficiency and build confidence among future physicians and researchers in modern molecular diagnostics. He highlighted that such training contributes to establishing the highest standards of healthcare services at both national and international levels.
According to Dr. Ghanghoria, the workshop enabled participants to gain practical expertise, boost their confidence, and develop the ability to perform precise data analysis in molecular diagnostic techniques.
Dr. Manish Purohit, Head of the Department of Microbiology and Principal Investigator of VRDL, stated, “Our objective is not limited to technical training but also to develop scientific thinking, ethical laboratory practices, and excellence in data interpretation. Such workshops make our students and researchers globally competent in healthcare standards.”
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Nishat Khan, Associate Professor of the Microbiology Department, who elaborated on the various applications of PCR technology in disease diagnosis and research.
The expert team facilitating the workshop included Dr. Suman Kumar (Scientist-C), Dr. Sulekha Yadav (Scientist-B), and technical experts Nikhil Pandya, Mukesh Mandloi, and Narayan Solanki.
Faculty members, PhD scholars, and technical professionals from MGM Medical College also participated actively, making the workshop a comprehensive learning experience.
*Story By Staff Reporter*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/topnews/mgm-medical-college-hosts-pcr-workshop
Do you want to stop spending so much money at the grocery store? Here are the best ways to save money at the grocery store and eat healthy.
Grocery shopping can be expensive, especially if you’re not aware of the sales techniques that stores use. Once you know these tips and tricks, it will be easier to save money every time you shop.
Retail stores and online retailers put a lot of effort into their sales strategies to encourage you to buy more products, maximizing their profit. Fortunately, my goal is to teach you how to save money when doing groceries or visiting the store. Preparing your own meals and shopping smartly is still the cheapest way to go about it. With some smart shopping techniques, you might even manage to keep your grocery bill under $70 per month, just like me.
Today, I will share common ways stores try to make you spend more, how to avoid them, and the best ways to save money at the grocery store.
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## Best Ways To Save Money At The Grocery Store
### 1. Meal Plan
Meal planning has positively impacted my life. We spend less time cooking and shopping, eat more vegetables, waste very little food, and save a lot of money. Meal planning helps you buy only what you will eat throughout the week, preventing food waste and reducing frequent trips to the grocery store.
If you struggle with eating at home, I recommend trying out the $5 Meal Plan. It’s an easy and convenient meal planning service that emails you meal plans and grocery lists tailored to those meals for just $5 per month. Their meals cost less than $2 per person and can save you time and money.
[Click here to try it out now for free!]
### 2. Make A Grocery List
Always start by making a grocery list. This helps you remember what you need and keeps you focused on buying only those items, avoiding unnecessary purchases. A grocery list also prevents you from buying duplicates of products you already have at home while forgetting essential items.
### 3. Avoid The Middle Aisles
Grocery stores are smartly designed to place fresh products like milk, bread, and produce at opposite ends of the store. This layout forces you to walk through many aisles — increasing the chances of impulse buying.
To avoid spending more, shop around the outer aisles where most essential products are located. This strategy helps you get in and out quickly without passing by tempting items in the middle aisles.
### 4. Never Buy Food Hungry
One vital lesson I’ve learned is to never go grocery shopping hungry. Shopping after work before dinner usually leads me to buy more than I need. Always eat before you go, or shop on weekends when you can shop at your convenience.
### 5. Be Cautious With Free Samples
Free food samples at stores can be tempting but beware—they often make you hungrier, leading to extra purchases. If you stick to your grocery list and eat at home beforehand, it’s easier to resist buying unnecessary items.
### 6. Eat With The Seasons
Eating seasonal produce not only tastes better but also saves you money. Out-of-season fruits and vegetables are usually more expensive due to longer transportation and storage needs. Opting for in-season produce helps keep costs down.
### 7. Stay Familiar Despite Store Layout Changes
Grocery stores periodically change their layouts to make you spend more time searching for products, increasing the chances of impulse buys. To avoid this, stick to your shopping list and focus on finding what you need, even if the store looks different.
### 8. Use a Basket Instead of a Big Cart When Possible
Big shopping carts can encourage buying more items. If your grocery list is short, opt for a shopping basket instead to avoid unintentional overspending.
### 9. Don’t Buy Things Just Because They’re on Sale
Stores use sales to bring you in, but you often end up buying other full-priced products. Only buy sale items if they’re products you regularly use. Otherwise, sales can lead to overspending. If you find it hard to resist sales, try a no-spend challenge to improve your discipline.
### 10. Don’t Buy Bottled Water
In most western countries, tap water is safe and free. Buying bottled water wastes money and contributes to plastic pollution. If you don’t trust tap water, invest in a water filter or filter bottle to save money and reduce waste.
### 11. Avoid Brand Names
Generic or store-brand items often come from the same factories as brand-name products but cost less. Don’t pay extra just for a label—give store brands a try and save on your grocery bill.
### 12. Eye Level Is Buy Level
Items placed at eye level tend to be the most expensive because stores want you to see and buy them first. Lower and higher shelves usually hold cheaper options. Check all shelf levels before buying to find the best deals. Notice how products for kids are even placed lower where they can easily see them.
### 13. Beware of Precut Items Markups
Precut fruits, vegetables, and meats are convenient but come at a premium price and generate more plastic waste. For example, precut carrots can cost nearly three times more than whole carrots. Buying whole produce and preparing it yourself will save you money.
### 14. Watch Out for Sale Items at Checkout
Grocery stores place small sale items and impulse buys near the checkout lines hoping you’ll grab them out of convenience. Be mindful when you wait in line to avoid unnecessary purchases.
### 15. Understand Different Pricing Tactics
Stores use several tactics to make products appear cheaper:
– **Psychological pricing:** Items priced at $1.99 instead of $2 seem less expensive, even though the difference is minimal.
– **Bulk discounts:** Offers like “11 for $20” encourage you to buy more than you need. These deals might not save much money if you don’t truly need that quantity.
Always buy only what you need, not just because of discounts.
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By following these tips, you can become a smarter shopper and reduce your grocery expenses significantly without sacrificing quality or nutrition. Happy shopping and saving!
https://radicalfire.com/save-money-grocery-store/
