Debunking The Healthy Food Is More Expensive Myth

The most common complaint I hear when it comes to eating healthy is that it just costs too much to buy that “healthy” food.

Today more and more grocery stores are providing healthier food options that won’t break the bank. But I find that many of you are still hesitant to switch from inexpensive processed foods to healthy whole real foods.

What are your thoughts about switching to healthier foods?

I’ve learned that most of the time the healthiest food choices cost less than the unhealthy options.

Can you guess why?

The unhealthy processed foods have no nutrient value. You end up eating more food because your body is hungry for the missing nutrients.

When you eat healthy whole foods, your body is fed nutritionally and you won’t need to eat as much or as often.

It’s really that simple.

Here’s my budget saving tips for eating healthier on a budget…

Budget for meat and fish

Lean meats and fish will always fetch the larger cost in your cart. Look for sales to stock up and freeze it for later use, or factor in mostly meat-free meals for the week and only splurge 2-3x a week on fish or organic lean meats.

Your grocery store will mark down their meats on a set day of the week. In our area, one chain marks their meat down on Monday and another on Wednesday. Find out when your store marks their meat down and save bundles for your budget.

Choose beans and legumes

Have you tried “Meatless Monday”?

Beans and legumes will provide you with the healthy protein your body needs daily. This is a great budget saver.

We’ve gone from meatless Monday, to meatless all through the week. I’ll cook meat on the weekend, and we’ve gotten accustomed to not having meat every day.

You can buy bags of dry beans, which are less expensive, or look for organic canned goods. Check the ingredients – only beans, water and little sea salt should be all that is in the can. Also, check the sodium content, there are plenty of brands that are salt free to help you eliminate too much sodium in your diet.

Buy fresh, local, and seasonal

If possible, always buy your vegetables and fruits from local farmers.

Too expensive?

Not necessarily. Farmers will love you if you ask for the vegetables and fruits that they can’t put on the shelf because of the way they look. You’ll get them at a discount if you use this little trick.

Buy frozen or canned to round out your meals

Are there any nutrients in frozen or canned vegetables?

Yes!!

Frozen vegetables are flash frozen, which locks in their nutrients. Today you can find organic caned vegetables without the added chemicals. Look for canned vegetables with just the three essential ingredients and nothing else – vegetable, water, sea salt.

Grocery stores will run sales on both frozen and canned vegetables throughout the month. Check with your favorite grocery store and ask what foods are on sale each week of the month. Most grocery stores run their sales on a schedule.  

No matter what type of budget you have, eating healthy should be part of your meal planning. Rethink your excuses and begin choosing healthier whole foods this week. Not only will you save money, you’ll create better health for you and your family.