The most common misconception in regards to eating healthy that I hear in my line of work is ” I can’t afford it” or “It’s too expensive for me to eat that way”. So what if I could create guidelines for you to not only make it inexpensive, but help you actually save money by eating healthy.
Here are some great tips that I have learned along way, that really make the wallet happier:
First, look for coupons, if you are not a coupon cutter no worries. Grab a coupon flyer when you walk into the store, look through it quickly and see what you need that is on special.
Second: Get the store brand i.e. whole foods brand, Hyvee brand, Ralphs, Trader Joes, Target, etc… They are usually much cheaper and taste just as good if not better, but you are just not paying for the Logo!
Third: Always, always, did I say Always, get the in store specials. Like Protein bars that are ten for ten, or waters 5 for 5. Buy one get one free. 9 out of 1o times when I go through the meat section there is discounted meat that has an expiration date of two days from now or the next day, and if I am not planning on using it I will just put it in the freezer.
Fourth: Buy in Bulk (sometimes)….Bigger is not always better! But, I have come to find out what items are cheaper when you buy them at your local Sams or Costco. Almond butter, salsa, eggs, almond milk, nuts, jerky, larabars, grass-fed meat, free range chicken, fruits, and veggies. The only problem sometimes is storage, but if storage is not an issue this is the way to go!
Fifth: Don’t buy things already done for you, like pre cut veggies, pre cut fruit, kabobs, etc… buy them separately and take the extra time to cut them and your bank account will thank you!
Six and Last: Shop on the outside of the store and do not go down the aisles. What we as Americans spend the most money on is PROCESSED FOOD. This food does absolutely nothing for us, and is putting a huge hole in the wallet. The outside of the store is where all the nutritional goodness is placed, so don’t stray and your wallet will thank you!
We are currently holding a nutrition challenge at our gym CPMFITness starting today. This is a common concern with most individuals who are wavering on signing up. If you shop with these tips in mind, you won’t have any problem keeping your wallet full this 2016!
Fit Chic