This article is part of a series; for the rest of the series, visit Food and MS.

Good planning makes selecting food items easier...so let's go shopping. Keep the cooking tips in mind when making your grocery list. Planning begins with an organized list and helps ensure organized meals. Also, remember that it takes starting with good ingredients to produce a good meal.

How often do you shop?
Many people shop every week, buying items for their weekly menus or buying standard supplies to stock their pantries. Others shop more often to ensure having fresh ingredients on hand, to get out of the house and interact with other people. 

Create a List
I've heard all my life that grocery shopping is done better with a list. Why? A list encourages you to plan menus and allows you to get all the items you need. Many people run to the store "just for milk," yet return with many more items. It's quicker and cheaper using a list because the shopper is more focused. A shopper with a good list who has self discipline can discourage impulse buying. Self discipline and focus are more difficult if you shop when you are hungry.

Write it before you go and keep a running list magnetized to the frig. Also, you can take advantage of Internet list programs. Each of these following example online programs allows you to keep a running list during the week:

My Grocery Checklist
Whether you are a member or not, My Grocery Checklist allows you to select items or add some of your own.
Grocery Wiz
This site displays stores' weekly ads and prints coupons. When your list is complete, you can share it with others so someone else can do the actual shopping.
Zip List
With Zip List, you can arrange items based on your specific grocery store.

Be sure to mark your list so you know which items have coupons to use them effectively. Also, keep the coupons organized so you can find them when they are needed. On your list, mark priority items you absolutely must get as opposed to those that would just be nice to have. Sometimes a store has a printed layout to make things easier to find and to help you organize your list by an item's location.

Where You Shop
There are so many places groceries are available including farmers' markets, standard grocery stores, specialty stores, and even the Internet. When selecting stores, ensure they are accessible by considering location, layout, facilities, and restrooms. Check with the store to see if they offer home delivery or call-in services for car pick-up. Each store has advantages, and some of those advantages relate specifically to MSers who have accessibility problems. Let's take a look.

Farmers' markets are great for people who want fresh local fruit and vegetables. Many neighborhood groups buy in bulk and disperse the produce. The markets are sometimes located in an outdoor site with walking space that may be covered in gravel or another awkward outdoor terrain. Although each group member takes a turn at selecting produce, people who do not easily get out can make a deal and have fresh produce delivered.