3 Simple Ways to Eat Healthier on a Budget

With the current economic downturn, eating healthy may feel less important than saving money. Contrary to common belief, eating healthy can actually cost less then a Big Mac, fries, and soda. We have discovered three simple shifts we can make that can keep us healthy, happy and energized.

1. Shift Where You Shop

Choose organic brands from mainstream stores. One of the easiest shifts we can make is where we shop. While natural food stores and Co-Ops offer a wide array of organic options, many traditional supermarkets are jumping on the organic trend with much lower prices. It is very important to check labels to ensure that your items are certified organic. Stores like Vons, Pavilions, Safeway, and Trader Joes are now offering organic lines at 1/2 the price of the Whole Foods 365 Brand. We have been using the O Organics brand for items including pasta sauce, olive oil, milk, yogurt, and baby food. Albertson's and Ralph's carries a similar organic line called Wild Harvest that offers a full line of organic products ranging from eggs, cereal, to soy milk.

Say yes to the Farmer's Market. One of our favorite places to find amazing food is the local Farmer's Market. They provide some of the freshest produce, meat, and dairy products available. You buy directly from the farmer, so prices tend to be drastically lower than you can find in a standard grocery store. The experience of interacting with local farmers, and artisans is defiantly more enjoyable than waiting in the check out line.

Shop at international markets. Another place to find great quality food at reasonable prices is your local international markets including Korean, Jewish, Indian, Hispanic, African, and Japanese grocery stores. While you can find many items with more affordable price tags be mindful to stick to the market's specialty, as other items can be more expensive such as buying pasta sauce in a Korean Market.

2. Plan Ahead

Create a menu plan. Take time at the beginning of the week to plan your meals. This takes a bit of prep time, but the experience can actually be fun for the entire family. Have your children help pick out healthy items and menu options. Make a list and pick up the various items at the stores with the best selection and prices. When you have a stocked kitchen filled with healthy foods and recipes, it becomes easier to cook than to run out for fast food.

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by Shannon Bindler & Margalit Ward
at the Huffington Post

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