Eating healthy on a budget can be challenging.
But consuming healthy food is a key component of living a long, healthy life.
Many Americans think that eating healthy means they have to empty their wallets.
That’s not necessarily the truth.
Keep the following 7 money-saving tips in mind next time you’re grocery shopping.
7 Tips to Eating Healthy on a Budget
1. Make a Weekly Meal Plan
Before going to the store, think about what meals and snacks you want for the week.
Read recipes thoroughly so you can organize an accurate list of everything you need, and potentially avoid running back to the store later in the week.
I, personally, tend to refer to Pinterest for excellent food recipes. I’ll type in: “healthy dinner options” or “healthy and easy meals” and see an array of options to choose from.
A simple google search would accomplish this as well.
2. Create a List and Stick to It
Make a detailed list of what you need to buy before you go to the store.
For me, after I do my research on the recipes I’ll screenshot or take a picture of the recipe, and then organize a detailed list.
When you go to the store, don’t buy anything besides what’s on the list.
This will keep you on track to budget.
3. Plan Where You’re Going to Shop
Many grocery stores run sales to offer coupons for various healthy foods.
Check out the ads and plan your grocery list around what’s on sale.
4. Don’t Go Grocery Shopping on an Empty Stomach
You’ll buy everything in sight!
According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, going grocery shopping when you’re hungry can cause you to spend more money than you initially planned to.
It can also increase the odds that you’ll buy unhealthy options.
5. Cook at Home as Often as Possible
According to a Visa report, the average fast-food lunch costs $11.14, while the average home-cooked meal only costs $6.30.
Many foods prepared at home are cheaper and more nutritious than fast foods.
Go back to the basics and find a few simple and healthy recipes that your family enjoys.
6. Buy in Bulk
For healthy, non-perishable items, it might be more cost-effective to purchase them in bulk.
While the initial cost may be more expensive, doing so could help you save money in the long-run.
7. Shop Seasonally
Fresh fruits and vegetables are usually easier to find and may be a lot less expensive when purchased in season.
In Closing
Healthy eating doesn’t have to be expensive.
Use the 7 tips above to help you create healthy food options for your family on abudget.
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