Makelesi understands the crucial impact that healthy shopping has on her family’s well-being. She often reflects on a core principle: “The food you buy is the food you eat,” which inspires her to stock her pantry and refrigerator with nutritious ingredients, making it easier to prepare wholesome meals.
She advocates that healthy eating yields the best results when paired with other positive lifestyle choices, such as regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and staying hydrated—simple yet essential steps for improved health. While she does not follow a formal exercise plan, Makelesi remains active by walking to her classes daily, seamlessly incorporating movement into her everyday life.
In light of the increasing cost of living, she stresses the importance of careful planning to make the most of every dollar without compromising nutrition. Makelesi champions meal planning to reduce waste and save time and money. She also encourages the practice of gardening as a practical way to grow vegetables, reducing grocery expenses while ensuring a supply of fresh produce year-round.
Her grocery shopping routine typically occurs bi-weekly with her husband, where they explore various supermarkets, including CJS Supermarket and Shop N Save. However, their preferred choice is Extra Supermarket, known for its wide range of products—offering everything from local Fijian items to international brands at competitive prices.
With a weekly budget of around $50 dedicated to fresh fruits and vegetables, they focus on making health-conscious decisions despite the rising costs of food. Makelesi stresses the importance of being discerning shoppers by reading labels and understanding the nutritional content of their purchases, which assists in making informed choices that protect their families’ health.
Her commitment reflects a larger trend in the community, where many are prioritizing fresh, local produce to promote healthier lifestyles while providing economic support to local farmers and markets. This lifestyle not only helps to lower grocery costs but also enhances access to nutritious food, thereby strengthening the community’s food system.
Makelesi’s journey serves as an inspiring example of how mindful shopping and healthy eating can significantly benefit families. As more households embrace similar philosophies, there is a collective shift towards better health and sustainability, strengthened by the belief that small, thoughtful choices can pave the way for a healthier, more nutritious future for all.