Healthy but Inexpensive Foods
By Sara Butler
Many people fall into the trap of stocking up on fat and preservative-laden convenience foods just for the sake of a saving some cash. There’s this idea that inexpensive food must be bad for you, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Eating healthy on a budget is possible with these inexpensive but incredibly healthy foods! Read on and you’ll see there’s not a ramen noodle in sight!
Protein
Protein is the cornerstone of healthy eating. Well, lead protein is. If you’re watching your wallet, then it’s likely steak isn’t on the menu each night. But you’re not just stuck with cheap cuts of meat or ground beef, either. If you want to add some healthy protein to your diet and save a few pennies, then you can do it with:
- Canned salmon – Provides plenty of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which help to keep your heart healthy and lower your risk of heart disease.
- Chicken breasts – Chicken is easy to cook and a great source of lean protein to help you stay satisfied for longer.
- Natural peanut butter – Peanut butter, as long as you leave out the added sugar, is pretty good for you. Pair it with some whole-grain bread or toss a tablespoon in your morning smoothies for a healthy punch of protein.
- Canned beans – Beans make a great addition to soups and stews and there are so many different kinds, you’re bound to find one you love.
- Eggs – Eggs may just be the perfect food, full of protein and other vital vitamins and minerals your body needs. They’re inexpensive and easy to take with you to lunch or to have on hand for a snack!
Fruit
Fruit provides your body with very important vitamins and minerals it needs to be healthy. But it does have a reputation for being expensive. There are some ways around the cost. Try:
- Frozen berries – These are just as nutritious as fresh berries and can be used easily in all your recipes for a quick but healthy addition to yogurt or oatmeal.
- Bananas – Bananas are quick, easy, and inexpensive. They’re also low in calories and full of fiber to help you feel fuller for longer.
- Grapes – Frozen grapes make a great snack or dessert, especially the dark purple kind that is full of heart-healthy antioxidants.
Vegetables
You may look at the produce section longingly, but there are some bargains to be found there! You should try:
- Carrots – Inexpensive, portable, and full of beta-carotene, carrots are inexpensive and healthy.
- Garlic – This tiny bulb is full of compounds that help keep your cardiovascular system healthy.
- Canned tomatoes – Tomatoes have a ton of vitamins and antioxidants that may just help to protect you from certain types of cancer. Just make sure to buy the low-sodium variety.
Eating food that's good for you doesn't have to be expensive. You simply need to know what to look for.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Marietta, Ga.