Eating Healthy on a Budget

Eating healthily can be expensive, but there are ways to save money on food without sacrificing taste or quality. For example, you can buy whole foods instead of processed junk food. Buying in bulk will also allow you to buy these items at a lower cost per unit. Additionally, you can choose to buy store brands, which are often just as good as name brands but will save you money in the long run. Avoiding junk food will save you money, which you can then use to buy other healthier items.

Plan ahead

One of the best ways to eat healthy on a budget is to plan. Planning will help you avoid making impulse food choices and will also ensure that you always eat healthy foods. You can also use meal planning apps to make it easier to create a shopping list and prepare healthy meals.

Shop the perimeter of the store

The conventional wisdom for eating healthy on a budget is to shop around the perimeter of the grocery store. This is where the freshest, whole food is found. These foods are usually much cheaper than processed, chemical-laden alternatives. In addition, these foods are often in season and are far less expensive.

Buy whole meats

You can buy whole meats for eating healthy on a limited budget by hunting or fishing. You can also barter with hunters for the surplus game. Although it is illegal to sell the game, you can often barter for the meat. Some hunters are trying to get rid of their meat before the next season, so you may be able to pick up some great pieces for free. Also, consider contacting farmers and asking for the details about the cattle. Ask about the breeds, what they're fed, and if they use sustainable farming practices.

Buy non-perishable items

To save money while eating healthy, you can buy non-perishable items, such as bread, pasta, and vegetables. They will last longer than perishable items, so you can use them for several meals. Also, you can buy non-perishable items in bulk, saving you money.

Eat at restaurants

When dining out, you want to be sure to pick something healthy. You can do this by looking at the menu. Most restaurants have a section that focuses on healthy foods. You can also call the restaurant ahead of time to ask if they have healthy options. Often, you can order a lighter option, such as grilled chicken, or try to order a kid's meal instead of an adult one. This will keep you from cramming in too much food.

Plan your meals around foods you need to use

If you're trying to eat healthy on a budget, it's important to plan your meals around the foods you need to buy. This way, you'll save money and avoid impulse purchases. Also, meal planning can help you save money by minimizing the amount of food you waste. To help you plan your meals around the foods you need to use, you can create a shopping list.

Cut back on unhealthy foods

If you're on a budget, you can cut back on unhealthy foods to save money while eating a healthy diet. Try to avoid extras at meals, such as desserts and alcohol, to eat more nutritious foods. Also, consider buying food in bulk, rather than buying it individually.