Let’s face it eating organic produce, and grass – fed meat is healthy for you but it can be expensive for a lot of people. That does not mean you cannot eat healthy. There are nutrient rich and budget friendly food options out there.
Here’s 5 ways to eat healthy on a budget.
#1 Prioritize your nutrients.
-Nutrient – poor foods (ex. most fast foods) are cheap and fast. They also lead to deficiencies and health problems.
-Nutrient- rich foods (healthy proteins, fats, carbs) cost a little more but they keep use satisfied and keep us healthy.
-Goal is to aim to balance your nutrients with every meal.
#2 Make the most of your meals.
-Buying already prepared foods is usually more expensive than buying the whole ingredients and preparing it yourself.
#3 Meal prep.
-Spending some time in the kitchen can save you a lot of money. Having the food prepped will keep you away from the drive thru and take out counter.
#4 Become a savvy shopper.
-Find the most cost effective places to grocery shop. Bulk stores, farmers or community markets, discount grocery stores or even grow your own produce.
-Cost effective foods are seasonal produce, frozen fruits and vegetables, less popular cuts of meat and dried beans and grains.
-Also consider the unit cost (the price per serving). The price might be higher but the cost per serving is lower.
#5 Avoid food waste.
-Plan before you shop. Figure out what you need for meal prep for the week. Make a list and stick to it. Avoid impulse purchases and buying too much.
-Learn how to preserve your foods. Whole fruits and vegetables will last longer if kept in the fridge. You can also freeze foods in airtight containers to have them last 3- 6 months.
-Remembering when good food goes bad in the fridge you are wasting money!