Eating Healthy on a Budget

Eating healthy does not need to burn a hole in your pocket. If you are following a food budget, the task of food shopping may seem challenging, but it doesn’t have to. You can save money and still have a variety of healthy foods without breaking the bank.

Simple switches to save money:

• Limit alcohol
  Alcohol is an additional cost to your weekly budget that if you cut it down or cut it out, it can help you save money and lose weight. Alcohol has “empty calories”, meaning that the food is higher in calories and lower in nutrients.
• Drink water (aim for 8 cups a day)
  Make 2 purchases that can save you money in the long run: a water filter and a reusable water bottle. You can filter tap water right from your home. Other drinks provide empty calories and can become pricey. Even when you go out to eat, order water. Think water is too boring? Try adding orange or lemon slices to your water bottle for some natural flavoring.
• Avoid the drive through
  Think you are saving money by hitting up the drive through everyday for lunch. Think again. By skipping the drive through and packing your own lunch can help you save money and keep you on track to healthy eating. Skip the double cheeseburger, fries, coke, and large cookie. Buy a loaf of whole wheat bread, turkey from the deli (often on sale), and fruit (in season is often cheaper). Pack a turkey sandwich, a piece, of fruit and your water bottle. Have a sweet tooth after lunch or dinner? Go for small individually wrapped treats like a couple dark chocolate Hershey kisses.
  This also includes limiting dining out.
• Make sure to have variety!
  Variety is key. No one wants to eat the same thing everyday. Seasonal foods are cheaper during their peak season. Switch it up all the time. An easy thing to switch up is snacks. Buy a variety of fruits to choose from for a healthy snack.
• Clip coupons
  Clip your coupons. Do a little research before your shopping trip. See what is on sale to incorporate in your meals for the week. Become a member of the store to get a discount on store items. These might seem little, but they add up to big savings at the end.
• Buy in bulk
  Buying in bulk is often cheaper. You can freeze perishables like breads and meats and use smaller portions when needed.
• Make extra
  Double a recipe you like and save the rest for leftovers later in the week or freeze the rest for later.