Eating healthy doesn’t have to be expensive. Here are some tips to make healthy eating choices while staying on a budget.
Buy Food in Season
To make the most of your grocery money, get into the habit of buying foods that are in season. Fruits and vegetables that are in-season tend to be the most affordable.
Scout Out Store Sales
Check store flyers and website/apps to find out which items are on sale. Look out for store sale specials, two-for-one offers and special deals. You may be able to get extra savings if you combine with coupons.
Prepare and Cook Meals at Home
Homemade meals are cheaper than restaurant meals and give you control over the ingredients. Plus, you can make extra servings and freeze for later use.
Shop in Bulk
Buying food items in bulk can be cost effective, as long as you are not over-purchasing. Stick to non-perishable items you know you’ll use throughout the month such as canned food, grains and frozen items.
Opt for Less Meat
Meat is usually the most expensive item in the grocery budget. Try to incorporate more plant-based meals into your weekly meal plan. Not only are they more affordable, they are also healthier.
Use Creative Leftover Ideas
Leftovers are a great way to save money as they can be easily recycled into a few different meals. Try to get creative with your leftover ingredients and turn them into more interesting meals.
Buy Quality Produce in More Affordable Ways
- Frozen: Frozen produce, such as fruits and vegetables, can last for months in the freezer, so you can have access to healthy produce year-round.
- Canned: Canned fruits and vegetables often cost less than fresh and can still be nutritious, as long as you pay attention to sodium levels.
In conclusion, eating healthy doesn’t have to empty your wallet. With a little practice, you can make nutritious and delicious meals without breaking the bank.
What are the most nutritious foods to eat on a budget?
1. Oats: Oats are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and they’re inexpensive.
2. Canned beans: Canned beans are a great source of protein and fiber, and they’re affordable.
3. Whole grains: Whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and farro are packed with nutrients and are generally great values.
4. Frozen fruits and vegetables: Frozen fruits and vegetables retain much of their nutritional value and can be cheaper than fresh and more convenient.
5. Eggs: Eggs are a good source of protein and are usually quite inexpensive.
6. Canned tuna: Canned tuna is an affordable source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
7. Peanut butter: Peanut butter provides a good source of healthy fats and is usually inexpensive.
What is the cheapest healthy food to buy?
Some of the cheapest and most nutritious foods include oats, sweet potatoes, brown rice, beans, lentils, broccoli, apples, bananas, eggs, spinach, and tuna. These healthy food options provide plenty of nutrients, such as protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, at an affordable cost.
What are some healthy foods that are budget-friendly?
1. Oatmeal
2. Potatoes
3. Rice
4. Frozen vegetables
5. Canned tuna
6. Beans
7. Lentils
8. Peanut butter
9. Bananas
10. Apples
What are some foods high in protein that are budget-friendly?
1. Beans: Dried beans and even canned versions are inexpensive and high in both fiber and protein.
2. Nut butter: Nut butters such as peanut butter and almond butter are packed with protein and can be purchased in jars or even in single-serve packets.
3. Eggs: Eggs provide plenty of protein and are an economical food.
4. Oats: Oats are incredibly nutritious, and just one cup provides six grams of protein.
5. Canned tuna: Canned tuna is inexpensive and loaded with protein.
6. Quinoa: Quinoa is a complete protein and a great source of other vitamins and minerals.
7. Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a creamy and satisfying snack that is high in protein.
8. Lentils: Lentils are versatile and provide plenty of protein.
9. Chickpeas: Chickpeas are a delicious and nutritious addition to many dishes and are high in protein.
10. Frozen vegetables: Frozen vegetables are an affordable option that can be used in a variety of dishes.
What are some cheap high-protein snacks?
• Soybeans
• Peanut Butter and Celery
• Edamame
• Greek Yogurt
• Almonds
• Hard-boiled Eggs
• Baked Tofu
• Chickpeas
• Nuts and Seeds
• Cottage Cheese
• Lentils
• Sunflower Seeds
• Air Popped Popcorn
• Protein Bars
What are some budget friendly high-protein snacks?
-Canned tuna
-Peanut butter on whole-wheat toast
-Boiled eggs
-Air-popped popcorn
-String cheese
-Homemade trail mix
-Nuts and seeds
-Roasted chickpeas
-Greek yogurt
-Hummus and raw vegetables
-Cottage cheese and fruit
-High-protein energy bars
-Low-fat cheese sticks
What are some healthy high-protein snacks?
• Hard-boiled eggs
• Greek yogurt parfait
• High-protein smoothie
• Nuts and seeds
• Tuna salad
• Cottage cheese and fruit
• Almonds and dark chocolate
• Edamame
• Nut butter and banana slices
• Turkey and cheese roll-ups
• Trail mix
• Hummus and veggies
