Eating healthy on a budget requires a paradigm shift. Instead of thinking of price as the only factor guiding your purchasing decisions, consider the value of what you’re getting. Sometimes a better value product will cost more than a cheaper alternative, but keep in mind that paying for empty calories or poor nutrition is never a good idea — even when the price is right.
Instead of buying pre-sweetened foods like cereal, iced tea, yogurt, and the like, buy the regular version and add a teaspoon or so of sugar. You’ll be saving money and chances are you won’t be using nearly as much sugar as a pre-sweetened version contains.
Fill your cart with produce that’s in season. It won’t just be economical; the food will be at its peak of flavor. Local farmers’ markets are great resources for healthful produce. At your local supermarkets, consider buying produce marked “locally grown.”
According to the National Soft Drink Association (NSDA), an American consumes, on average, over six hundred 12-ounce soft drinks per year. Not only are sodas, sugary juices and alcoholic drinks expensive, they contain a lot of empty calories which fill you up and prevent you from getting the nutrients your body needs. Instead, drink water. It’s great for your skin, your body and your finances.
Whole grains are economical and healthy. Oats, barley, wheat and brown rice provide nutrition as well as dietary fiber to fill you up.
Legumes like lentils and beans provide necessary protein at much more reasonable prices than meat. Plus, they contain dietary fiber and are low in fat, making them a dietary bargain. Eat meat in moderation and add more lean sources of protein to your diet.
To get your day off to a good start, don’t skip breakfast. Instead opt for a high protein meal that won’t leave you ravenous later on.
Shop the perimeter of the store and you’ll avoid prepackaged foods that often contain a lot of sodium, fat and preservatives. Learn to cook your favorite foods at home, and you’ll spend less money while eating healthier.
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