Food that is nutritious can be costly, and it can be challenging to eat a balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables on a tight budget. The good news is that there are a variety of strategies to save money while still eating full meals. In fact, here are some suggestions for eating healthy on a budget.
Home-cooking
Cooking at home is one of the most cost-effective and healthy ways to eat. Get the ingredients and make your own nutritious food instead of going out to buy pre-made healthy cuisine.
Make a lot of food and save the leftovers
You may save time and money by cooking huge meals. Lunches or other meals can be made with the leftovers. Stews, stir-fries, salads, and burritos can all benefit from them.
When you’re hungry, don’t shop
You’re more likely to stray from your grocery list and buy something on impulse if you go to the supermarket hungry. When you’re hungry, you’re more likely to grab for processed foods, which have less nutrients than whole foods. And while these aren’t usually on your to-do list, they’re also not good for your wallet.
Invest in whole foods
Some goods are more economical when they aren’t as processed. Less processed foods are also sold in greater amounts and yield more servings per package, which saves you money in the long run.
Other proteins can be used in place of meat
It’s possible that eating less meat will help you save money. Use alternative protein sources, such as lentils, hemp seeds, eggs, or tinned salmon, on a couple of days per week.
Stock up on frozen produce
Frozen fruits and vegetables are an inexpensive way to eat healthily. Fresh vegetables are typically 30% more expensive than frozen stuff. Plus, fruits and vegetables last much longer and are usually already sliced and ready to eat, saving you time on rinsing and cutting. Frozen produce may be a suitable option for you if you don’t use much of the fresh produce you buy or if it spoils rapidly.