Healthy eating on a shoestring: 7 easy tips that will save your pocket as well as health!
In the fast life and rising inflation nowadays, it is a great challenge to have healthy food. Most people believe that healthy food is meant for those who possess time and money. But the reality is that with little knowledge and planning, you do not only need to satisfy your stomach with minimum expenditure, but can also give your body the required nutrition.
In this blog post, we will inform you about 7 simple and effective tips, with which you can make healthy food affordable - without burdening your pocket.
1. Plan a weekly meal
Impromptu shopping tends to result in wasteful expenditure and food wastage. Planning a weekly meal is a good habit that will not only save you money, but also save you from the frustration of wandering around all day, "What shall I cook today?"
On Sunday, take a seat and plan what you will prepare during the next week, and make your grocery list accordingly. This way, you will purchase only what you require, and there will be no food wastage.
2. Select seasonal and local vegetables
Seasonal vegetables are not only healthier and fresher, but also affordable since they come in bulk at the market. Buy from a local mandi or vegetable market rather than a mall or superstore — you'll find the prices lower there and you can even bargain there.For instance, vegetables such as carrots, cauliflower and fenugreek not only taste great in winters, but are also economical.
3. Steer clear of processed foo
Instant meals offer convenience, and can be prepared quickly, but comes at the expense of your budget and health. The long-term consequences of consuming sugar, salt, and preservatives are far more impactful than the instant gratification that comes with processed food.
Cooking and eating at home is incredibly good for one’s physical health and helps save money. Staples of Indian cuisine, like dal, sabzi, and rice, are perfect for accomplishing this.
4. Purchase in bulk
If there is space available to store, purchase staple products such as pulses, rice, wheat flour, and spices in bulk. Purchase in bulk decreases the cost per kilo, and you need not go to the market that frequently.
It will cost you a bit now and then, but it is an investment in the long run.
5. Make use of leftover food
Do not toss out extra food. Find ways to make use of it. Turn leftover rice into dishes like pulao fried rice, or even lemon rice for the next day. Use remaining vegetables to prepare parathas or rolls.
This is not just a money-saving habit, but also a time-saving and food-wastage-reducing one.
6. Opt for simple and affordable superfoods
Not all superfoods are costly! There are loads of affordable and effective superfoods in our vicinity that you can incorporate in your diet:
Peanuts – rich in protein and healthy fats
Lentil sprouts – high in fiber and vitamins
Oats – satiating and good for the stomach
Chia seeds (in small quantities) – high in fiber and omega-3
All of these can be readily purchased in the market and are not costly.
7. Opt for home food instead of eating out
eating out may be convenient initially, but soon the expenses pile up. Moreover, outside food is usually full of excess oil, salt and spices, which are unhealthy.
Home food is hygienic, fresh and cost-effective. If you work in office, taking tiffin with you can be a healthy habit.
More advice: Read the nutrition label
If you ever need to purchase packaged food, then surely take a look at its nutrition value. Knowing how many calories, fat, sugar and sodium is present, you can make smarter decisions.
Conclusion: Healthy Eating = Smart Planning
Healthy eating isn't about money — it's about being smart and planning a bit. If you stick to the above advice, not only will your health benefit, but your budget won't break either.
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