Shop Smart at the Farmers Market

That's Fit is always reminding you to eat more vegetables. Consider us your stay-skinny mother, without the guilt. Beyond their low-cal status, veggies are packed with vitamins, minerals and high-density fiber. And now the best veggie season of the year is kicking off at your local farmers market.

Here are a few shop smart strategies from the Chicago Tribune, along with key tips to save money on your next farmers market visit:

• Know the Schedule -- Like the magnetic Cubs schedule on our fridge, keep that local farmers market schedule handy. Check out all farmers markets along your commuting path, too.
• Farmers May Vary Prices -- If you frequent a farmers market in an upscale part of town, you might want to try shopping at a market in a lower-income area.
• Early or Late -- Arrive early for best picks or leverage closing time for a good deal, farmers don't want to leave with a full truck. Ask them what they're willing to give you for a set amount of cash, say $20. Be careful not to barter too much, farmers are primarily interested in building long-term customer relationships, not flaunting their flea market haggling skills.
  
• Walk the Market - Unlike the standard grocery store, offerings change week to week based on the growing season. Walk the entire market first to make the right list.
• Flattery Works -- Bring your favorite farmers a cup of hot coffee, compliment them if you enjoyed their food, let them know you appreciate their hard work. You may end up saving some money.
  
• Bring Quarters -- Farmers run out of them, and if you walk up with a couple rolls of quarters when they're scarce, you may score an extra pint of blueberries or handful of beans.
• Pool Your Resources - Buy in bulk with family and friends to save significant money.

You may pay more at a farmers market, but it's good for your nutritional health. Beyond organic offerings and minimal pesticides, you're more likely to ingest those incredibly sweet, $5 strawberries than let them rot.