Yes, you CAN afford to eat healthy

So many people tell me that the biggest reason they aren’t eating healthy is because they can’t afford to. I am here to set the record straight: Yes, you CAN afford to eat healthy. Chances are, you just choose not to.

Eating healthy is a choice, and here’s some healthy foods that are within your budget.

Tip: Create a meal plan.

When I first got married, my husband created a grocery shopping rule: I could only buy what’s on the grocery list that I had already created. This led me to create better meal plans!

A big way to save money is to create a detailed meal plan. Just add any items you need to your grocery list. Do this well in advance, and never plan on an empty stomach. By doing this, it has been a huge way to save money and my waistline!

Tip: Buy in Bulk

Buying in bulk can hurt you or help you with your healthy eating goals. Here’s some healthy foods you should start buying in bulk for better health:

• Brown Rice – This is a great filler to add to meals without sacrificing your health. I was able to find Organic Brown Rice at a nearby Costco for about $1.50 a pound.

• Eggs – I buy my Organic Brown Eggs from Costco. I pay $4.00 for 18 eggs. Eggs are a fantastic source of protein, and even if you opt for mainly consuming the egg whites, you’re still buying these at a great price. Eggs are known to be one of the healthiest and cheapest forms of protein.

• Lentils – Very healthy for you, and at about $1.25 per pound, good for your budget too! You can make lentil soup, lentil burgers, and even lentil bread. With a food so healthy, cheap, and delicious, it’s no wonder so many people have come up with creative ways to incorporate lentils into their meals.

• Fresh Fruits and Vegetables – When you buy fresh produce in bulk, the key is to pick just one or two fruits and vegetables and rotate them each week. This way, you don’t over eat one type of fruit or veggie, and you don’t get bored. Though the prices may vary, buying in bulk can really save you some money.

• Frozen Fruits and Vegetables – These aren’t always cheaper than fresh produce, but since frozen fruits and vegetables are sold year round, buying frozen produce when it is out of season can be a great way to save money and still eat healthy.

Tip: Buy locally and in Season

• Farmers Market – Your local farmers are selling fresh produce right at your doorstep for a fraction of the cost. Since there is no middle man, the farmer’s savings gets passed on to you.

• Fruits and Vegetables – In order to get the best prices for your produce, only buy what’s in season.

Tip: Do-it-Yourself

• Prepare your own foods – When you purchased packaged foods, you are definitely paying for convenience along in addition to preservatives and unnecessary sugar. Save your bank account and your waistline by making more homemade foods.

• Grow your it yourself – Growing your own Garden can save you a lot of money! If you are limited on space, try growing a small herb garden or even sprouting within your home. Gardens are cost effective and very nutritious!

Not sure when to plant? Check out The National Gardening Association for tips and ideas on how and when you can get your garden started.

• Buy a Food Dehydrator- Make your own fruit leathers, dried fruit, and even beef jerky. One of the most expensive and unhealthy convenience foods is dehydrated choices, so making your own will be a lot cheaper and healthier. No added preservatives or Sugar is something to celebrate!

Tip: Go Old School

• Boycott Fast Food – Rather than taking a trip to your closest fast food joint every day, bring in your own lunch to school or work. It’s a lot easier on your budget and expanding waistline.

Do you have any cost saving tips on eating healthy? Please share your thoughts in the comments section.

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