5 Easy Tips For Eating Healthy On A Budget
More than half a billion adults, and over 42 million children are obese, or overweight. Studies have found that obesity was most prevalent in low, and middle income families. Junk food, and processed foods seem to attract buyers who are on a budget, due to their low prices and “can’t miss” deals. Unfortunately, eating fast food can be a lot more costly than you think. Luckily, there are a few easy ways to eat healthy without burning a hole in your wallet.
Stop Buying Junk Food:
Buying fast food for every meal can cost more than buying healthy foods in a grocery store. At first, it may seem like you are saving money by buying that $7 hamburger, fries, and a drink, but think about it. There are most likely over 800 calories in that combo. Which means you are using up more money, and more of your suggested calorie intake for just one meal. Versus buying fruits, and vegetables for a less costly amount, that can last you days, while keeping your body happy and healthy.
Plan and Prep Your Meals:
It never hurts to plan ahead. Knowing what you’re going to make for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, before you hit the grocery store, will help you stick to your list. Focus on buying healthy foods that you are sure to love, and won’t get tired of throughout the week. It always helps to prepare your food in advance as well. Knowing you already have a prepared meal waiting for you at home, will stop your mind from wanting to turn into the next fast food restaurant you see. Preparing your meals ahead of time will also prevent food from going to waste.
Stick to Whole Foods:
Foods such as cheese, rice, and bread can be cheaper as a whole. Buying a block of cheese will be less expensive than buying a bag of shredded, processed cheese, as you will be getting more for your money. Whole foods tend to come in larger quantities. Not only will buying whole help to save your bank account, but you will also be protected from most of the harsh preservatives used in processed foods, like MSG and GMO’S.
Don’t Shop While You’re Hungry
Shopping on an empty stomach is never a good idea. You are almost guaranteed to cheat on your diet while doing this. All your stomach wants is food, and next thing you know, you’re in the donut aisle. Have a light snack to hold you over during your shopping trip, and use the healthy foods you buy to enjoy a fulfilling meal, versus a cupcake you might buy on a hunger impulse.
Stick to Your Grocery List:
Do your best to fight off those cravings by sticking to your grocery list. Make a list of your favorite fruits, vegetables, and other healthy foods and STICK TO IT! This will help with not making unintended, expensive purchases that will most likely just go to waste. Also, you won’t be as tempted to succumb to those awful cravings that will only spike up your blood sugar. If your list contains whole foods, as it should, shopping the perimeter of the store would be best, as most of the processed, junky foods are found in the middle aisles.
