10 Healthy Ways To Eat On A Budget
There is this misconception that eating healthy is expensive. Let’s bust that myth! Here are some budget wins to get you on your way to healthy eating and keep your pocket happy.
1. In season vs. out season
Buy locally seasonal produce because it costs less than out of season options. Out of season produce travels far and may not be as fresh which also means lower in nutrients. This not only supports local growers but they are more than likely organic and follow responsible practices.
2. Have a plan
Before the busy week starts, make a list of what meals you’d like to eat this week. If you are struggling to be creative, there are tons of online sources of inspiration that can help you put together a solid food plan. Planned = affordable.
3. Bulk buying
Getting your healthy essentials in bulk, work out way cheaper. A bonus is that they have a long shelf life and are unprocessed. Try these:
- Brown rice/pasta
- Oats
- Pulses – dried or canned
- Quinoa/buckwheat
- Onions/potatoes/garlic/pumpkin
- Nuts, seeds and dates (freeze nuts/seeds to keep fresh)
- Olive oil
- Olives
- Frozen berries and chopped fruit
4. Make a shopping list
Jot down a shopping list this makes it easy to avoid impulse buying. Spontaneous buys are often pricey. It’s also a good way to check what’s in your kitchen and what you need.
5. Check the reduced section
Everyone loves a deal. Make it the first and last stop in the store. You’re sometimes pleasantly surprised with healthy offers and this can keep meals interesting.
6. Order online
Not just letting you compare prices. You can track your cart total and keep tabs on your monthly/weekly spending. Take advantage of competitive benefits and get loyalty discounts and points.
7. Stay away from takeaways
Getting tired of prepping and cooking healthy meals, we get tempted to order takeaways. This doesn’t do us any favours for our budget or health. Rather try online health companies, that deliver food boxes to your door. Works out cheaper per meal and you steer clear from nasty takeaways.
8. Always make to have leftovers
One of the biggest budget killers is buying your lunch at work. Avoid that by making extra at dinner. Try a meal prep day (Sunday), putting together meals for the week’s lunches. Lowers cost per meal when you prep bigger nutritious meals.
9. Go for loose
Many times, loose produce is cheaper than packaged produce. It also skips the need for plastic.
10. Educate yourself
When sticking to a budget, know what things cost and what a fair price is. Knowing the going price for foods will help you spot a bargain a mile away.
Get fresh, quality produce from local providers through one of our partner’s below, Big Barn.
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