How-To Save Money & Still Eat Healthy

You may have heard that eating healthy is expensive; however, that is not necessarily true. In fact, research from Harvard shows that a healthy diet only costs $1.50 more than a less healthy alternative. Now, I know what you’re thinking–that $1.50 adds up. And you’re correct. Over time that extra $1.50 you’re spending on eating healthy compounds significantly. That being said, the upside is it’s possible for you to cut costs and eat healthy on a budget.

7 Ways to Eat Healthy While Pinching Pennies

1.) Cook at Home

The primary way to eat healthier and save money is to cook at home. For those of you who have been reading my posts for a while know, I’m an avid chef. I love cooking and cook at home quite frequently. In fact, my family and I would much rather stay at home and eat rather than go out to eat and be disappointed. Yet, there are those who do not like to cook. You may not have the time or you might find cooking to be a chore. Buying ingredients, prepping, meal planning, and standing in the kitchen for long periods of time may not be your idea of fun. If you fall in this category, there is another option. Make your own healthy staples. These are items like salad dressing or granola. These staples are quick, easy, and cost-effective.

2.) Shop at Your Local Farmer’s Market

The great thing about the farmer’s market is the products are fresh. Plus, you’re supporting your community by buying from local farms. Moreover, farmer’s markets are budget-friendly because farmers bring their own products directly to the buyer rather than having to pay to have them shipped. And since the products are not shipped, you don’t have to worry about additives or preservatives. Win-Win-Win.

3.) Buy Food in Bulk

When you’re able, buy your food in bulk–especially foods that have longer shelf lives or can be broken up and frozen. Buying in bulk offers additional perks like not having to make as many trips to the store, which means less money spent.

In addition to purchasing food in bulk, it’s a good idea to stick to store brands. Stockpiling items like peanut butter, yogurt, or granola is cheaper when you buy the generic brand.

4.) Use Coupons & Cash Back Apps

My grandma is 93. She will be 94 in April. One of the many things she has mastered in her lifetime is couponing. She is the coupon queen. She never goes shopping without them. I can’t tell you how much money this woman has saved over the years by simply using coupons. If there is just one point you take from this article, let it be this–coupons are extremely effective. You will save yourself time and money by utilizing coupons. When you shop with coupons you’re guaranteed to find sweet deals and feel good about yourself.

5.) Prep Meals in Advance

Part of the reason many people don’t like to cook is they don’t have the time. Cooking is the last thing they want to do after a long day’s work. The best way to overcome this obstacle is to set aside one day of the week for meal prep. Meal prep doesn’t have to be hard. Keep it simple by having one protein, one vegetable or fruit, and one whole grain per meal. Knocking out your meals for the week will save you time, energy, and money in the end.

6.) Stock up on Frozen Produce

Purchasing frozen fruits and veggies is a great way to ensure a healthy, balanced diet while saving money. Frozen produce costs 30% less than fresh, lasts longer, and is already cut up and ready to use.

7.) Consume Less Meat & Dairy

Meat and dairy products are the heavy hitters in many people’s diets. Unfortunately, they are also the most expensive. If one of your goals in 2022 is to eat more healthy, then you may want to explore a more plant-based diet. A plant-based diet will help you trim costs and improve your overall well-being. If you’re not crazy about giving up meat and dairy, start slow by eating two plant-based meals per week.

There you have it–seven ways to live a life of health and wellness while saving money at the same time.

Sources:

Health Magazine

Hiranmayi Srinivasan

August 13, 2021