Eating a healthy diet is the goal of many people. Whether the decision is reached due to current health problems or for preventative measures, a low budget shouldn’t stop you from reaching your goal. While it may be difficult to eat healthy on a low budget, the benefits of a healthy diet will outweigh the extra effort. Stop complaining about your budget and learn to incorporate healthy foods into your existing financial situation.
Instructions
1. Determine your budget. Instead of complaining about your lack of cash, establish how much money you actually have available to spend on healthy food. Make a budget regularly since other financial obligations in your life may fluctuate. Knowing your baseline will help you form realistic meal expectations.
2. Shop around for bargains. Prices vary between store chains as well as the same stores within different neighborhoods. You may find that is more beneficial to purchase certain varieties or brands of food across several stores to find the best value. Thoroughly search ad circulars to make note of upcoming sales. Take advantage of store initiated savings including double coupon days or early-bird specials. Search online to find added deals and coupons. Find deals on produce, meat and bread nearing its expiration date.
3. Plan your meals. Spontaneous expenditures can expand your waistline as well as your budget. Map out what meals and snacks you will eat to help you save the money you do have. Write down your meal proposals to ensure each food group is accurately represented. Calculate your nutritional needs by assessing your current disease state, age and overall activity level. Consult your doctor or dietitian for individualized recommendations.
4. Visit your local farmers' market. Since the products are grown locally, you won’t pay costs associated with shipping or out-of-season growing. Choose from a wide variety of meat and produce to add to your diet. Sacrifice a Saturday morning to bring home health foods for minimal cost. Make a list of the products and current pricing for future reference.
5. Prepare your meals at home. Although food made at your favorite restaurant may be healthy, you incur extra costs to pay for the convenience of not having to prepare it. Dust off your utensils and grab a cookbook to save money. Invest in healthy cooking aides such as books and instructional videos to beef up your cooking skills. Experiment with fresh ingredients to create your own healthy favorites.
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