Eating healthy on a tight budget can seem impossible. With everything keeps getting more expensive, how are you supposed to be able to afford healthy food? Well, with a little bit of planning and creativity, it is possible to eat healthily without breaking the bank. Here are the top 10 foods to buy when you’re on a tight budget.
1. Beans
Beans are an excellent source of protein and fiber and are very affordable. They are also very versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, for example, in soups, salads, and even desserts.
Dried beans can be bought in bulk and stored for a long time, making them perfect for those on a tight budget.
2. Lentils
Lentils are another great source of protein and fiber. Like beans, they are also very versatile and can be used in many dishes. They cook quickly, which makes them perfect for busy weeknights.
You can opt for both canned and dried lentils, depending on your budget.
3. Rice
Rice is a staple in many cultures and is very affordable. It’s also filling and can be made into a variety of dishes. Try to buy brown rice, as it is more nutritious than white rice. You can also experiment with different types of rice, such as basmati or jasmine.
One side note, when cooking rice, be sure to use the correct ratio of water to rice. Too much water will make the rice mushy while not enough will make it dry.
4. Oats
Oats are a great breakfast option as they are filling and nutritious. They are also very affordable and can last a long time if stored properly.
There are many ways to eat oats, such as with milk and fruit, or made into oatmeal cookies. Overnight oats are also a great option as they are quick and easy to make, and packed with protein.
5. Eggs
Needless to say, eggs are a great source of protein. There are many ways to cook eggs, so they make a great option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You can fry them, scramble them, or even make an omelet.
You can even freeze eggs to make them last longer. When you need them, just thaw them overnight in the fridge and use them as you would fresh eggs.
6. Frozen Fruits and Vegetables
Frozen fruits and vegetables are a great option for those on a tight budget. They are often cheaper than their fresh counterparts and they last longer. Frozen fruits and vegetables are also just as nutritious as fresh ones. So, if you’re looking for a healthy and affordable option, frozen fruits and vegetables are the way to go.
When buying frozen fruits and vegetables, be sure to check the label to make sure there are no added sugars or preservatives.
7. Canned tuna
While tuna is not the cheapest fish, canned tuna is a great option for those on a tight budget. Tuna salad, pasta with tuna, and tuna sandwiches are all great options.
When buying canned tuna, be sure to check the labels for sodium content and opt for those with no or low sodium. You should also consider buying tuna packed in water instead of oil—it’s healthier and lower in calories.
8. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a great source of protein and healthy fats. Of course, if you have a peanut allergy, you can opt for another type of nut butter, such as almond butter.
Peanut butter is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, such as on toast, in smoothies, or even in baking. Just be sure to check the labels for added sugars and other unhealthy ingredients.
9. Pasta
It’s worth mentioning that pasta is another great option for those on a tight budget. It’s filling, relatively healthy, and can be stored for a long time. And for those nights when you don’t have a lot of time to cook, there are many great brands of jarred pasta sauce that make for a quick and easy meal.
10. Canned Soup
Canned soup is an affordable and easy-to-make option. Just heat and eat! When buying canned soup, be sure to check the label for sodium content and choose those with no or low sodium. You should also opt for soups that are made with healthy ingredients and have little to no added sugar.
You can either serve it as-is, or you can add some extra protein, such as chicken or tofu, to make it a more complete meal.
Conclusion
Eating on a tight budget doesn’t always mean eating unhealthy food. There are many nutritious and affordable options out there—you just have to know where to look. The key is to plan ahead, be mindful of what you’re buying, and to cook at home as much as possible. With a little effort, you can eat healthy and save money at the same time.
Eating healthily on a budget is possible with careful meal planning and by knowing which foods are the most affordable and nutritious. By following these tips, you can save money and eat well at the same time.
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