Eating Healthy On A Budget

If you have problems serving healthy foods because of the prices, you'll find these tips to be just what you need to eat healthy on a budget.

1.  Eliminate junk food by shopping alone
Doing your shopping on your own is the easiest way to shop, as children and sometimes spouses are usually the ones that will sabotage a budget by requesting junk food.  Shopping alone, if you need to, will prevent this, and ensure that you only buy the foods you need.

2.  Buy Water or milk instead of soft drinks
You can still enjoy your favorite drinks at a sporting event or night out, although you should stick with the smallest size when shopping to save
money and calories.  Children and even adults need milk or milk products on a daily basis.  Milk provides calcium for healthy bones and healthy teeth.

3.  Buy fruits in quantity
When they are in season, buy fruits in quantity and freeze any extras.  You can buy several pounds this way, and freeze extras to have them when the fruit goes out of season.  Wash the fruit well, remove any spoiled pieces, dry thoroughly, then freeze in plastic zipper bags.

4.  Meats and beans
Meats and beans are the best sources for protein. Lean meat is more expensive than meats with a lot of fat but a much healthier choice when possible.  Canned beans are a great deal as well, as they give you protein at a great price.

5.  Beans as a meatless substitute
You should use beans as a substitute for meat one to three times a week. There are several varieties, and endless recipes.  Plan ahead and use a crock pot to have dinner ready for you on a busy day. 

The USDA recommends eating beans at least 4 times per week.  If you experience gas after eating beans you should try washing them, covering them with water, bringing the water to a boil, then draining it off and refilling the pot.  You can also add a little ginger to the beans.  For a cheap, easy and super healthy meal using beans, please see this delicious vegetarian chili recipe.

6.  Eat fish for health. If you are fortunate enough to live in a coastal area or an area where fish are plentiful, make them an integral part of your diet.  You can catch them from the lakes or rivers, saving money in the process.

7.  Peanut butter is great for those on a budget as it's popular with almost everyone.  You can use it for sandwiches instead of eating hot
dogs.  The healthier versions usually need to be refrigerated, and the bigger jars can last you for weeks.

8.  Fill up with fruit.  You should fill up with foods that have a high content of water such as watermelon and salads. 
 

Eating healthy is always a wise strategy and sometimes being forced to be on a budget can be a blessing. When your budget forces you to shop wiser you will usually make better food choices which will also have a positive effect on your health.  Eating healthy is a win-win situation for the whole family.