Eating Healthy on a Budget
When it comes to eating healthy, it does not have to be super expensive. There are several ways that you can save money and stick to your budget while pursuing a lifestyle that includes eating healthy. Continue reading to find out how!
Getting groceries from your local pantry -
One of the best ways to save money but still eat healthy is to get FREE groceries from your local pantry. Not only are these groceries free, but some are even organic and really quality foods. I used to volunteer for my pantry and receive fresh produce and canned goods. However, you do not have to volunteer to receive free goodies (although it is nice to volunteer once in a while). If you are unsure of where to find your local pantry you can go to https://www.foodpantries.org/ and select the state and city you live in to find the closest pantry site near you.
Buying fruits and vegetable in season -
Buying fruits and vegetables when they are in season is another way to save money while still eating healthy. Fruits and veggies are more affordable when they are being sold during their harvest season. They are more expensive when they are sold in their off-season because farmers need to do more work to create a harvest of the produce. Although you may like to stick to fruits and veggies you are used to eating and crave, venture out and try new things. You may really like what you try and save money in the process! If you are unsure of what is in season during different times of the year, go to this site to find out https://snaped.fns.usda.gov/seasonal-produce-guide.
Meal Prep
Meal prepping is a great way to save money. Creating a weekly budget for groceries ensures that you will not overspend on food. If you are cooking for yourself, groceries can be as low as $40 a week, $50 the most. It will be more if you are cooking for others, but you will still save money cooking ahead of time. Knowing what meals and snacks you have for the week decreases your chances of spending money on outside food since you know you have food at home. Not only does meal prepping save you money, but it saves you time, energy and reassures you that you are eating healthy because you know what you’re putting in your food.
Receiving Government Assistance
I know some of you may be prideful when it comes to receiving help, but receiving help can help you save money! If you are unemployed or have low income but don’t want that to stop you from eating healthy - seek out government assistance (food stamps/EBT). The great thing about food stamps is that they also take into account if you have children and give enough to cover their groceries as well. This way, you and your little one(s) can eat well!
Trader Joes, Farmers Market
Lastly, TRADER JOES! I wish I was more committed to a healthy lifestyle in college because I would have been in Trader Joe’s instead of Walmart every weekend! Trader Joe’s not only has fresh, organic produce but it is affordable (and their employees are really nice!). Trader Joes has a lot of exclusive, healthy snacks that are only sold at Trader Joe’s. Shopping here has really helped me save money while eating healthy.
As far as Farmers Markets, they are not always cheap, but you can get coupons so the price is more affordable for your pockets. Farmers Markets are great because you are supporting local farmers and receiving high-quality produce. I don’t know about outside of NY but I know the link to go about getting coupons in NYC is right here -> https://www1.nyc.gov/site/dfta/about/farmers_market_nutrition_program.page.