Believe it or not, but eating healthy is not the cheapest. Starting a healthier lifestyle and nutrient-dense diet may shock the wallet at first, but with some planning and smart shopping, it doesn’t have to be unaffordable.
Here’s several tips to help you along the way to your goals towards a healthy lifestyle:
#1: Stick tot he most basic ingredients
Look for ingredients that can be used in multiple dishes. Get spices that you occasionally use like all-season salt, onion powder, all-season salt, black pepper, or other spices native to your culture. Healthy go-to oils like olive oil and coconut oil can be used in all your recipes.
Frozen vegetables are also worth a look. They still contain the same nutrients as fresh ones but definitely have a much longer shelf life. Try to avoid specialty gluten-free flours and other ingredients that could sit in your pantry because you’re not sure how to use them.
#2: Cook in bulk
Cooking in large batches serves to save both time any money. Usually buying in bulk yields cheaper prices. Making large servings also helps with meal prepping for the next day and you also end up cooking less.
#3: Not everything has to be organic
There are many food items that are fine to buy from your local grocery store on a regular basis. While you always want to buy organic celery and strawberries, there might be some other items that aren’t necessarily more nutritious because they’re organic. It’s a good idea to do some research on what organic foods you can get the most out of so that way you make your money stretch even further.
#4: Cut out the extras
If eating healthier is that important to your goals, make a list of your non-essential expenditures. Some foods may cost more, but they can be easily justifiable if you cut out your daily coffee or vending machine excursions. Make what’s important to you the main priority budget-wise.
#5: Stick to buying ingredients, not products
There are so many healthy options at the store, but just like regular shopping, it’s cheaper to buy the ingredients to make something than to buy a pre-packaged healthy meal. While it is more convenient for sure, taking the time to make your own food makes you more mindful of all the ingredients that you’re putting into your body.
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