Living a healthy lifestyle does not necessarily have to be expensive. Despite being on a tight budget, it is still possible to eat well and enjoy nutritious meals.
With a little planning, smart shopping, and creative cooking, you can stretch your dollar and create delicious, wholesome dishes that nourish your body and satisfy your taste buds.
In this article, we will explore practical tips and strategies to help you eat healthy on a tight budget.
But first, how expensive is it to eat healthy?
One of the most fundamental requirements to being human is the ability to consume a healthy, balanced diet. However, billions of people lack food and experience “hidden hunger” due to micronutrient deficiencies including a lack of iodine, iron, calcium, vitamin A, or other essential minerals.
There are numerous causes for why someone might not consume a healthy diet. Most frequently, it is simply because people can not afford to.
The United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization used data on local food item pricing from the International Comparison Program (ICP) along with other data on food composition and nutritional needs in its The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World report published in 2020.
The study looked into how cheap it is to meet dietary requirements around the world, starting with the most fundamental prerequisite: consuming adequate calories.
Although these calories could take many different forms, in most nations starchy foods and cereals are the most affordable choice.
If you followed this “energy sufficient” diet, you would have to eat only rice or maize flour for every meal, which would severely deprive you of all other essential elements.
Looking into people’s diets from around the world, the study observed that people in developing nations obtain the majority of their calories from starchy foods.
Prices were assessed at local retail marketplaces in each nation; these could range from modest open stalls to huge supermarkets, depending on what is most typical of the nation.
On less than $1 a day, a person can sustain their energy needs with food. In all the study’s participating nations, the cost of this diet was on average $0.83 per day.
This indicates that a significant portion of the money of the poorest households is spent on food. The ‘52% criterion’ was chosen by the researchers because this is the percentage that those with the lowest incomes normally spend on food.
Researchers calculated that 381 million people could not afford the most basic meal that provided enough energy in 2017 by comparing the price of diets with income patterns around the world. These people have the poorest nutritional situations.
Of course, this is the extreme end of the spectrum. What about healthy, nutritional diets?
A varied and healthy diet is actually what individuals need. Although getting enough calories is crucial, it is insufficient to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. You will be low in protein, vital fats, and the full spectrum of micronutrients that our bodies require for optimal operation if you exclusively eat cereal and starchy foods.
The majority of nations create “food-based dietary guidelines” that offer suggestions for what constitutes a “healthy diet.” This includes recommendations for the ideal ratio of foods from the various dietary groups—cereals, fruits, vegetables, legumes, meat, and dairy—for long-term health.
The least expensive options to follow these national food-based dietary recommendations were also examined by the researchers.
There is not a single, “healthy diet,” of course, especially in light of the significant cultural variations in food preferences.
Therefore, the researchers chose dietary recommendations that were regionally representative; as a result, the study did not expect that individuals in India or Japan will embrace the national dietary recommendations of the United States, or the opposite.
Unsurprisingly, a varied, healthy diet costs significantly more than one that provides enough calories. The study discovered that $3.54 per day was the global average cost. That is a four-fold increase.
Three billion people cannot afford a healthy diet according to these prices in the context of affordability.
Most of the people in many of the world’s poorest nations, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa, cannot afford it or produce it. According to the research, a nutritious diet is out of reach for more than 90% of people in many nations.
How do eat healthy on a tight budget then?
Certainly, changes in legislation and other measures are required to establish a food system in which the healthiest option is also the most convenient and available.
When faced with a tight budget, it can be tempting to opt for processed and fast food due to their perceived affordability and convenience.
However, these options often lack essential nutrients and are packed with unhealthy ingredients. Contrary to popular belief, eating processed and fast food is rarely cheaper than preparing healthy, home-cooked meals, at least if you’re doing the cooking properly.
Planning ahead is key to eating well on a tight budget. By revising your shopping habits, eliminating waste, and focusing on healthier choices, you can stretch your budget and experience the health benefits of an improved diet.
Here are some ways to maximize your nutritional return on investment, from the grocery store to the kitchen.
Create a shopping list
First, make a detailed list of what you need to buy. Take inventory of everything you will need as you go forward with your weekly meal planning.
Find out what you have in your pantry, fridge, and freezer, and make a note of when it will expire. Having a shopping list in hand can help you avoid making any unnecessary purchases that could quickly drain your bank account.
For example, create a grocery list based on the meals you intend to cook in the next week. You should also start making healthier food choices and planning your meals in advance at this time.
Meals without meat are an option. Proteins found in plants are cheaper and just as nutritious as those found in animals. Plant proteins like beans or tofu can be used to save money, improve the volume of the meal, boost nutrition, and make it heartier if you still crave meat after cutting back.
Keep a supply of filling staples
Having a supply of staples is essential when you’re on a tight budget. Olive oil, flour, canned tomatoes, canned fish, frozen vegetables, dried herbs and spices, pasta, rice, and stock cubes are all versatile ingredients that can be used to create a variety of healthy meals.
By having these items on hand, you can easily whip up nutritious dishes without breaking the bank. For instance, healthy and low-cost canned veggies, sliced peppers, and cucumbers can be good staples to have around and can be used in a variety of recipes.
Get filling and satiating snacks and meals. How simple is it to consume half a bag of chips all by yourself? But how many apples or nuts can you consume in one sitting?
If you are trying to decide between a huge bag of chips and a 3-pound package of apples, price is not everything. One study indicated that those who eat items that do not satisfy their hunger end up eating more frequently, which could drive up food prices.
Find cheap and healthy recipes you like or would like to try
Simple, healthy dishes will help you stick to your budget whether you live alone or with roommates.
It is much less of a hassle to plan and purchase for the week’s meals once you have a few staples in your repertoire.
Discuss food preferences with your loved ones or housemates. This not only makes sure everyone’s opinions are heard, but also makes everyone feel like they have a stake in the outcome.
Prep meals ahead
Preparing meals ahead of time can save you both time and money. On a Sunday evening, for example, you can chop salads or make sandwich fillings for the week.
By having pre-prepared meals, you can avoid the temptation to grab unhealthy and expensive takeout when you’re pressed for time or feeling tired after a long day.
For starters, since you have already looked at the recipes you will be using, you will already have a decent notion of what you need to acquire during your grocery trip. After that, you can be sure of what to put in your shopping cart.
That means you should refrain from making impulsive purchases of items you might or might not use. That eliminates any last-minute trips to the fast food joint or vending machines.
If you are trying to save money, you should never include junk food in your grocery cart. Consuming manufactured goods like soda, cookies, crackers, premade meals, and the like is not only expensive, but also nutritionally empty.
The high quantities of hidden sugar in many packaged foods contribute to health issues and drive up the cost of groceries.
You should stay away from processed foods like instant mashed potatoes, white bread, canned soups, and sugary cereals. Choosing whole foods and cooking from home puts you in charge of the amount of sugar in your diet, which can help you save money and feel better.
Instead of buying expensive and unhealthy sugary drinks, you could just drink water. Not only is water completely free, but you can spice it up by adding some citrus slices. Try out various permutations to zero in on the perfect flavor profile for your infused water.
By cutting back on these items, you can improve your overall health and save money in the process.
Focus on healthier choices
Planning meals around inexpensive but healthy whole foods is a great way to stretch your budget and experience the numerous health benefits of a nutritious diet.
Minimally processed foods such as whole grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables are not only affordable but also provide essential nutrients that support your overall well-being.
A healthy grocery list can include both fresh and processed items. Since the degree and kind of processing influences nutrient content, processed foods should not be universally categorized as unhealthy.
Food preservation techniques like freezing and canning allow us to stock up on nutritious foods like frozen veggies, canned salmon, and canned beans all year round. However, it is important to choose canned or frozen meals that do not have any added salt, sugar, or other preservatives.
Inexpensive and rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, the following foods can be enjoyed throughout the year:
- Proteins – beans, peas, lentils, canned fish, ground turkey, chicken thighs with skin, peanut butter, low-fat cottage cheese, tofu, and eggs
- Produce – leafy greens, whole lettuce or cabbage, broccoli, radishes, fresh carrots, apples, bananas, unsweetened fruit, frozen or unsalted canned vegetables
- Grains and pastas- whole rolled oats, high-fiber cereals like shredded wheat or bran, whole dried grains like brown rice, millet, barley, and bulgur, and whole grain pasta
Make smarter shopping choices
Needless to say, do not go shopping if you have not eaten. Before you go shopping, fill up on some fruit or nuts.
Picking fresh produce over processed food does not have to put a strain on your weekly food budget. It is important to keep in mind that the true cost of junk food typically exceeds the advertised price. You may save money and take care of your health just by making better eating decisions.
You can save both time and money by choosing whole meals over processed ones.
It is more cost-effective to buy a block of cheese and cut it into slices or grate it yourself rather than buy pre-packaged cheese products.
The same logic applies to lettuce: it is cheaper to buy a head, wash it, and chop it yourself than to buy pre-washed bagged salad. You can save money and stay away from unneeded additives by making these few adjustments.
Make do with what you have rather of constantly replacing it. Make it a habit to take stock of your pantry and refrigerator twice a month. Excavate the hidden things and use them as cooking inspiration.
Be mindful when you eat. Mindful eating (or simply paying attention while eating) has been shown to improve satisfaction from meals. It is possible that lesser servings will be just right for you. Eating while multitasking might increase food consumption and hasten the onset of hunger.
Buy frozen fruits and vegetables (or freeze them yourself)
Fresh produce, meat, and fish are often on sale, so be prepared to adjust your list accordingly. You could stock up on the things you like to eat and save them for later by buying in bulk and putting them in the freezer.
Many fresh foods can be frozen, including meats and seafood as well as fruits and vegetables like bananas, berries, avocados, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and corn.
Frozen fruits and vegetables are typically more cost-effective and just as nutritious as their fresh counterparts.
If you have room in your freezer, the most cost-effective frozen bags are the larger ones. These frozen selections are adaptable, and can be used in a variety of ways, including smoothies, stir-fries, soups, and even as a side dish.
Vegetables on the corner cart are cheap because they are getting a little stale, but you can still eat them if you eat them the same day or the next.
When fruits and vegetables are in season, they are typically more affordable. Take advantage of the lower prices of in-season produce including apples, oranges, grapefruits, potatoes, and onions.
Additionally, consider buying produce by the bag instead of by the piece, as long as you can consume it before it goes bad. This approach can lead to significant savings over time.
However, do not stock up on extremely perishable foods if you will not be able to use them within a week (unless you plan to freeze them).
Be mindful of extremely perishable commodities like pre-bagged salad greens, mushrooms, berries, avocados, and bananas, and learn how to store produce properly for a longer shelf life.
Find cheaper protein options
Protein is essential for your body’s functions, but it can be expensive to incorporate into your meals. Fortunately, there are budget-friendly ways to ensure you’re getting enough protein without breaking the bank.
When prepared correctly, less expensive cuts of meat can rival the flavor of their more expensive counterparts. Stewing and braising, for example, can turn tough steaks into delicate, savory morsels.
You can save money by substituting chicken thighs for chicken breasts or stewing beef for top pieces. These options are great since they help you save money and provide more culinary variety.
You may make your meat recipes last longer if you add rice, pasta, veggies (fresh or frozen), beans, or whole grains. You may increase the satiety and nutritional value of your meals by include these ingredients.
Meals like tacos made with ground pork and black beans or meatloaf with added healthy grains are both delicious and economical. Discover what you like best by trying new things with varied flavor profiles.
There are financial and health benefits to reducing or eliminating meat from your diet on a regular basis. Soy, tofu, beans, and lentils are very inexpensive and simple to make vegetarian protein sources.
Beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds are available in quantity and can be used in a variety of ways. Try out various vegetarian recipes and cooking techniques to find protein-rich foods that suit your diet.
Eggs are a cheap and convenient protein option that can be eaten at any time of the day. Vegetable omelets and frittatas can be made with any combination of veggies and herbs that you like, making them a versatile and quick meal option.
Serve them with some rice, beans, or a salad for a filling meal. Eggs are a cheap source of protein since they include a wide range of useful elements.
Purchase generic or store brands of dry and canned goods
The store brand or generic alternative is usually less expensive than the name brand at traditional supermarkets. Do not let flashy advertising or packaging impact your decision. Try store brands or generic alternatives; you might be pleasantly surprised by the quality and savings.
If you compare the ingredient lists, you will see that the generic and store brands utilize very similar, if not identical, ingredients. Less money is spent on marketing and attractive packaging for the generic brand, so it can be purchased for a lower price.
You should think about stocking up on dry goods and canned goods. Products like whole grains, lentils, and dried beans are typically cheaper per unit if purchased in a “family-sized” box; however, the initial investment may be more. This can be worked out by dividing the total cost by the number of units you need.
When comparing two products, it is important to use the same unit of measurement. Brown rice bags, for instance, may list their contents in pounds.
The unit cost of the rice can be calculated by dividing the total cost by the weight of the rice. Example: Comparing Rice A to Rice B, the former comes in at $1.59 for a 1-pound bag ($1.59 per pound) and $3.99 for a 5-pound bag ($0.80 per pound), respectively. The price of Rice B is lower.
Protein and calcium can be affordably obtained from dairy products including yogurt, soft cheeses, and kefir. Probiotics, commonly known as “good” bacteria, are present in certain dairy products and are beneficial to gut health.
Sauerkraut, pickled vegetables, miso soup, and tempeh are all good examples of probiotic foods that do not use dairy. You may obtain the health advantages of probiotics without breaking the bank if you eat these items.
Buy in bulk and prepare meals in batches
You can save time and money by purchasing non-perishable foods in large quantities. Examples of foods that are available in bulk include dried beans, tinned salmon, grains, and cereals.
Bulk items should be stored if possible. Cereals and grains in airtight containers, then freeze smaller pieces of meat and bread to use as needed. Another option is to make bulk purchases with a friend to share the cost.
Then, if you do not feel like cooking during the week, consider preparing a large meal on the weekend and storing the leftovers in the fridge.
This approach saves you time and energy, as you only need to reheat the pre-prepared meals. Additionally, it allows you to enjoy a variety of dishes throughout the week without the need for excessive cooking.
Instead of letting leftovers go to waste, you can also get creative and transform them into new meals.
Soups, stews, and stir-fries are excellent options for incorporating leftovers. By adding a base of broth or sauce and combining it with any leftover ingredients you have, you can create delicious and budget-friendly meals.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to infuse unique flavors into your dishes.
Grow your own herbs and vegetables
Growing your own food has a number of important advantages, including the potential for financial savings.
Produce purchased from stores, especially organic varieties, can be extremely expensive. You can significantly reduce your food expenses by growing your own fruits and veggies.
A package of seeds would cost about the same as one fruit or vegetable. Furthermore, homegrown organic vegetables can be obtained for a lot less money than those purchased from a store.
For instance, a few lettuce seeds can produce a plentiful supply of fresh greens for a fraction of the price of store-bought salads in bags.
Similar to this, cultivating your own herbs might help you save money since store-bought packages of pricey herbs frequently go bad due to their limited shelf lives. These savings have the potential to accumulate over time and significantly alter your household budget.
Even doing something simple like regrowing green onions in a glass of water, growing fresh herbs, spices, and onions will go a long way.
While alliums like onions and garlic can be stored for extended periods of time, bagged herbs in the supermarket tend to be more perishable than their loose counterparts. You will have leftover sprigs unless the recipe specifically calls for the entire package (like a whole bunch of basil for pesto).
While proper storage (such as cilantro in a cup of water wrapped with a bag) might increase their longevity, there are other ways to make them last longer if they will not be used within a week.
An easy way to have chopped herbs on hand for sautéing vegetables is to freeze them in olive oil in an ice cube tray.
Ginger is another flavor enhancer that can withstand being frozen; simply store in an airtight bag, peel and grate as much as you need (no need to thaw), and return the rest to the freezer until ready to use.
Green onions (scallions) can be easily regrown indoors in a sunny window sill. The white root tips should be placed in a glass of water and the water should be changed roughly once a week. Snip off what you need once the green tips have grown back and leave the rest to flourish.
What are the benefits of healthy eating?
Let’s touch on why you should start eating healthy to begin with. Strong bones, a healthy heart, fewer illnesses, and a better disposition are just some of the benefits of eating well.
Lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, and vibrant fruits and vegetables are just some examples of the nutrient-dense foods that should make up the bulk of a balanced diet.
More nutrient-dense options should be substituted for meals high in trans fats, added salt, and sugar as part of healthy eating habits.
Bone health, cardiovascular health, illness prevention, and mental well-being are just few of the many benefits associated with eating a balanced, healthy diet.
Cardiac and cardiovascular health
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of mortality among American adults.
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), about half of all American adults suffer from some form of cardiovascular disease. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a growing health concern because it increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.
It is estimated that up to 80% of premature heart disease and stroke diagnoses may be avoided if people made changes to their lifestyles, such as getting more exercise and eating better.
The blood pressure of individuals can be lowered and their cardiovascular health improved through dietary changes.
The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet has a lot of heart-healthy foods. The program suggests the following:
- consuming a lot of fruits, veggies, and whole grains;
- selecting dairy products, fish, poultry, legumes, nuts, and vegetable oils that are low in fat or fat-free;
- restricting consumption of foods and beverages with added sugars as well as foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as fatty meats and full-fat dairy products;
- limiting daily salt intake to less than 2,300 milligrams, ideally 1,500 mg, and increasing potassium, magnesium, and calcium intake;
- foods high in fiber
Dietary fiber helps improve blood cholesterol and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and obesity, as reported by the American Heart Association.
The medical community has long known that trans fats increase a person’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
The health of your heart can also benefit from cutting back on certain fats. Reducing intake of trans fat, for instance, has been shown to reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Plaque buildup in the arteries is caused by this type of cholesterol, which increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Lowering blood pressure also has beneficial effects on heart health. In most cases, this can be achieved by limiting daily salt intake to 1,500 milligrams (mg).
Manufacturers add salt to many processed and quick foods, so people wishing to reduce their blood pressure should avoid them.
Reduced risk of cancer
People can reduce their risk of developing cancer by eating foods high in antioxidants, which protect cells from damage.
When free radicals are eliminated from the body with the help of antioxidants, the risk of developing cancer decreases.
Antioxidant phytochemicals are abundant in plant foods such fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes. Some examples include beta carotene, lycopene, and vitamins A, C, and E.
The National Cancer Institute reports that several antioxidants have been linked to a reduced risk of free radical damage, which can lead to cancer. Although human trials are mixed, doctors advise against using these supplements without first talking with a professional.
Antioxidant-rich foods include:
- Blueberries and raspberries
- leafy, dark greens
- carrots and pumpkin
- seeds and nuts
What’s more, obesity may worsen outcomes and raise a person’s risk of getting cancer, according to a trusted source. Keeping a healthy weight may lower these risks.
Researchers discovered that a diet high in fruits lowers the risk of upper gastrointestinal tract malignancies in a 2014 study.
Additionally, they discovered that a diet high in fiber and low in fat decreased the risk of liver cancer while a diet high in fiber decreased the risk of colon cancer.
Better overall mood
There may be a link between what you eat and how you feel, according to the statistics. Researchers found in 2016 that those with obesity but otherwise good health may have worsened fatigue and depression while adhering to a glycemic load-heavy diet.
A high glycemic load diet includes many refined carbohydrates, such as those found in soft drinks, cakes, white bread, and biscuits. Vegetables, entire fruits, and whole grains all have lower glycemic loads.
Recent research suggests that a person’s mood may be affected by their diet if it affects their blood glucose levels, immune function, and gut bacteria.
The results of this study lend credence to the idea that healthier diets, such as the Mediterranean diet, are linked to better mental health. Diets heavy in processed foods, saturated fat, and red meat have the opposite effect.
Researchers stressed the need for more study into the pathways connecting food and mental health, which is important to keep in mind.
An individual may find it helpful to speak with a doctor or mental health expert if they believe they are experiencing depressive symptoms.
Better intestinal health
Natural bacteria that are abundant in the colon play crucial roles for digestion and metabolism.
Additionally, certain bacteria strains produce vitamins K and B, which are beneficial to the colon. They might also aid in the battle against dangerous viruses and germs.
Inflammation in the gut may be reduced by a fiber-rich diet. Prebiotics and probiotics may be found in a diet high in fiber vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains, which can support the growth of healthy bacteria in the colon.
Good sources of probiotics are:
- yogurt
- kimchi
- sauerkraut
- miso
- kefir
Probiotics could also improve a variety of digestive problems, including symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Enhanced memory
A healthy diet may also aid with cognitive function. More research is needed, though.
Minerals and foods were found to protect against dementia and cognitive decline in a study conducted in 2015. According to their findings, the following foods are the best in this category:
- Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins D, C, and E
- Fish contain flavonoids and polyphenols
The Mediterranean diet, among others, has several of these nutrients.
Loss of weight
The chance of developing chronic health problems can be lowered by maintaining a healthy weight. An individual who is overweight or obese may be more susceptible to developing various illnesses, including:
- Type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease
- osteoarthritis stroke hypertension
- certain malignancies and certain mental health conditions
Nutritious foods like vegetables, fruits, and legumes, among others, tend to be lower in calories than their processed food counterparts.
An individual’s calorie requirements can be determined using the advice provided by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025.
Maintaining a healthy weight can be accomplished without the need to track calories if one eats a balanced diet. In 2018, scientists found that people who ate a diet high in fiber and lean proteins lost weight without having to count calories.
Diabetes management
A balanced diet may be helpful for diabetics looking to control their blood sugar levels, keep their cholesterol and blood pressure within target values, prevent or postpone diabetes consequences, while keeping a healthy weight
Diabetics should watch what they eat, especially when it comes to processed meals high in added sugar and salt. They should give some thought to avoiding fried foods because of the high levels of saturated and trans fats they contain.
Good teeth and bones
Consuming enough calcium and magnesium from food sources is essential for healthy bones and teeth. Keeping your bones healthy can help you avoid issues like osteoporosis later in life.
Calcium-rich foods include the ones listed below:
- dairy ingredients
- canning fish with bones and kale
Food producers regularly fortify cereals, tofu, and soy or nut milk with calcium. Numerous meals contain significant levels of magnesium, but the following are among the best.
- green leafy vegetables
- grains, seeds, and legumes
Better sleep quality
Sleep apnea occurs when an underlying medical condition disrupts breathing periodically during the night. Risk factors include heavy drinking and being overweight.
Whether or not a person has sleep apnea, cutting back on alcohol and caffeine may help them get a good night’s sleep.
Final thoughts
Moving past the nutritional and financial benefits, one of the biggest benefits towards living a healthy life, however, is that it sets a good example for children.
Parents that set a good example by modeling healthy eating and exercise habits likely to pass them on to their children, who learn most health-related behaviors from the adults in their immediate environment.
Researchers discovered in 2018 that kids who frequently ate dinner with their families ate more vegetables and fewer sugary items than their classmates who ate dinner at home less frequently.
So while eating healthy may cost a bit more than your average lunch and dinner, all the benefits are worth it in the long run. It doesn’t even have to be that expensive either!
By employing smart shopping strategies, making the most of affordable, nutritious ingredients, and embracing home cooking, it is entirely possible to enjoy a well-balanced and nourishing diet without breaking the bank.
By prioritizing both financial and nutritional aspects of our food choices, we can reap the benefits of a healthy lifestyle while simultaneously safeguarding our financial well-being.
So, embark on your budget-friendly culinary journey and savor the satisfaction of nourishing your body and mind without straining your wallet.
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