8 tips for eating healthy on a budget
Doesn’t it seem like healthy food is more expensive? Our family has made a big decision in the last 6 months to focus on healthy eating and lifestyle choices, and we’ve learned a lot along the way. With 4 young children (ages 2-9), my husband and I have to stay healthy and fit to keep up with everything! To stretch our dollars by eating healthy, I always keep the following tips in mind…
1. Cook at home
We all know that eating out is not only more expensive, but also much less healthy. Portions are often larger than necessary and you don’t really know what’s in your dinner. Getting to that self-service may seem quick and easy, but we pay for it in both cost and health.
2. Plan your meals in advance
One way to avoid the temptation of processed and prepared foods in our constantly busy schedules is to create a weekly menu plan. Sticking with simple, healthy meals along with cooking ahead and freezing meals does wonders in this area.
3. Eat less meat
Many times, the most expensive item on your shopping list is… (yes, you guessed it!)…meat. Although fresh meat is part of a healthy diet, don’t forget other healthy sources of protein such as canned beans, eggs, fish, and even tuna or chicken, which are usually less expensive and just as nutritious. Mix them into a salad or a whole grain pasta dish, and there you have your healthy dinner!
4. Shop local
Farmers markets are a great resource for discounts on fresh fruits and vegetables. Many communities also have small businesses that focus on collecting fresh produce from local organic farmers each week.
5. Save on canned and frozen vegetables and focus on healthy items on sale
When planning your shopping trip, focus on the healthy sale items each week. When canned or frozen veggies go on sale, stock up…and keep in mind that just because that sugary snack is on sale doesn’t mean you have to buy it!
6. Focus on whole grains
Stock up on whole grains when they’re on sale. Cereals, pasta, and oatmeal have a long shelf life, and you can get great deals on these products by combining Buy 1 Get 1 Free sales and coupons.
7. Avoid processed foods
Processed and pre-packaged foods are often a source of unidentifiable and unhealthy ingredients. If you focus on whole foods, you’ll avoid these unknowns entirely.
8. Maintain a stocked and healthy pantry
We try to keep our pantry stocked with healthy options like whole wheat pasta, canned vegetables, whole grain crackers, nuts, healthy canned meats and more. Use those 6 week sales cycles and stock up at that rock bottom price on those healthy options! Also, knowing that I can prepare a quick meal for my family that is both healthy and frugal gives me a little sense of peace in our hectic and busy daily lifestyle of 4 children in many activities.
