During these difficult economic times it seems like everybody is feeling a financial pinch as the economy keeps on getting worse. Everybody is trying to save money any way we can, while we keep hoping that we keep our jobs. One of the easiest expenses to save on is our grocery bill, because it is one of the most flexible expenses. There is a tendency to get rid of the healthiest items on our grocery list, like fruits and vegetables, since they are often the most expensive. This is not a good idea to sacrifice your health in order to save a few bucks. Here are some ideas how to keep a healthy diet while being on a tight budget.
While its not that easy to eat healthy on a tight budget it can be done. If you’re committed to following through, then you can still buy the ingredients for hearty, wholesome, nutritious meals that won’t put too much of a dent in your wallet.
The first thing you can slash from your budget is buying prepackaged foods. Consumers actually pay a premium for the convenience of bagged salads, heat-and-serve breakfast sandwiches, and similar products. You can save lots of money each week by making your own salads and meals with fresh ingredients. Besides saving money on “convenience” products you will be eating more healthier because you are avoiding the preservatives which often go into prepackaged goods, so you’ll actually be killing two birds with one stone.
Also you can save by using coupons or stick to items that are on sale. While this sounds like a no-brainer, you’d be surprised of how few people take advantage of all these coupons. Shopping this way does take some discipline, so be prepared to make frequent substitutions. If apples aren’t on sale this week, make do with oranges instead or maybe go to another store which has apples on sale. If beef gets more expensive, switch to another meat product like for instance chicken or turkey. Most people who know how to eat healthy on a tight budget are very strict about the sales-only rule. It really makes a difference!
You might also want to look into joining wholesale clubs like Costco or BJ’s. In addition to the typical gallon jugs of ketchup these places are known for, they also sell meats and produce. If you have enough room in your freezer, you can stock up on lean cuts of beef, pork, or chicken, and simply defrost them when you’re ready to cook. Similarly, you can purchase discount produce — as long as you’re sure you can use all of it before it goes bad. Loading up on vegetables and then making a couple weeks’ worth of stews and casseroles to freeze is something lots of folks do.
These are just a few basic ideas for how to eat healthy on a budget. I know it’s tempting to simply stop off at McDonald’s or Burger King and order off the dollar menu on your way home from work, but you won’t be doing your waistline any favors that way. Isn’t your health is worth the extra effort!
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Isabel De Los Rios is a certified nutritionist and the owner of New Body a fitness and nutrition centre based in New Jersey.