9 Ways to Eat Healthier Without Paying More

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If you resolved to eat healthier foods in 2018, you’ve probably noticed that it’s not just your waistline that’s getting thinner. Your wallet may be lighter, too.

Yes, eating more healthfully can be more expensive. However, that doesn’t mean you should resign yourself to living on Cheetos and Mountain Dew. Following are 10 ways to eat better for less.

1. Buy in season

Aleksandar Karanov / Shutterstock.com
Aleksandar Karanov / Shutterstock.com

Produce is one product category prone to massive markups. One way to avoid paying exorbitant prices is by buying in season.

That may mean berries in the early summer, followed by beans, corn and squash in the fall. However, you can find specific information for your area by doing an internet search for your state, plus the words “seasonal produce.”

2. Shop with a list

Jasminko Ibrakovic / Shutterstock.com
Jasminko Ibrakovic / Shutterstock.com

Before heading to the store with only a few vague ideas of what you need, take the time to create a menu plan and a shopping list based on that. Having a plan can help you avoid impulse purchases that may be fattening as well as costly.

A list can also help you avoid throwing money in the trash when you end up with extra food that spoils.

3. Buy only what you will use

Aaron Amat / Shutterstock.com
Aaron Amat / Shutterstock.com

According to the National Resources Defense Council, 40 percent of America’s food goes to waste. Using a menu plan and a list is a good way to ensure you are only buying food you’ll use.

You can also save money by trying before you buy. Rather than spending a lot on a new product, try the smallest size first to make sure you like the item.

4. Do your own prep work

Voyagerix / Shutterstock.com
Voyagerix / Shutterstock.com

Precut fruits and vegetables are convenient, but they cost more. If you’re trying to stretch a meager grocery budget, do all of your own prep work.

If you’re short on time during the week, consider setting aside an hour on the weekend to do all the chopping and peeling at once for a week’s worth of meals. Learn how to properly store produce so that it doesn’t discolor or spoil.

5. Skip processed snacks

kathayut kongmanee / Shutterstock.com
kathayut kongmanee / Shutterstock.com

You might crave a bag of chips and a soda pop, but you’ll be better off with a hard-boiled egg and some water. Processed foods are often loaded with simple carbs that can send your energy spiraling downward while leaving you hungry for more.

Instead, look for high-protein snacks that will fill you up longer without the nasty side effects that come from sugar overload.

6. Buddy up to your store managers

cunaplus / Shutterstock.com
cunaplus / Shutterstock.com

Meats and produce often get marked down at least once a week. Ask the managers of these grocery store departments about markdown schedules so you can be there at the right time to get first dibs on the offerings.

When you find a good deal on lean meat, don’t be afraid to stock up and put the extra in the freezer for future meals.

7. Eat less meat

Oleksii Mishchenko / Shutterstock.com
Oleksii Mishchenko / Shutterstock.com

Speaking of meat, it’s often the most expensive part of the meal. The magazine Eating Well estimates you can save $210 annually by replacing a pound of sirloin with a block of tofu once a week for the year.

Of course, you can save even more by using beans as your source of protein. If meatless options don’t sound appealing, look for casserole or salad recipes in which meat takes a supporting role, rather than a starring one.

8. Eat less in general

bokan / Shutterstock.com
bokan / Shutterstock.com

Another way to save money is to simply eat less, period. American waistlines indicate we have a portion-control problem in our country.

You can also start serving a broth-based soup at the beginning of meals. One study found this tactic reduces the amount of food people eat during the main course.

9. Grow your own food

Iakov Filimonov / Shutterstock.com
Iakov Filimonov / Shutterstock.com

For the price of seeds or seedlings — and some elbow grease — you can provide at least some of your own fresh produce. If your thumb isn’t green or if green space is in short supply around your house, try planting some fresh herbs in small windowsill containers.

For more about growing your own, check out “How to Save Money Growing Great Food in Your Garden.”

How do you save money while eating healthy? Share your tips by commenting below or on our Facebook page.

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