The #1 excuse that people give for not eating healthy is the higher cost of buying healthier foods.
While studies have shown that unhealthy foods do tend to cost less than healthier options, one thing that we can’t forget is the high cost of healthcare that’s associated with poor eating.
The difference in price is really very small, when you think about the long term costs of treating the multitude of chronic diseases that tend to occur from consuming a poor diet.
Of course, when you’re forced to choose between paying rent and eating healthy foods, most people aren’t going to consider the long term effects.
Fortunately, I have good news:
There is really no reason to skip healthy foods, even if you’re on a limited budget.
There are some fabulous “superfoods” that are affordable, meaning under $1 per serving – which means that there is really no reason to pick up that box of generic mac ‘n’ cheese or package of hot dogs, right?!
Lentils, cost an average of just 15 cents a cup. They’re loaded with fiber and protein, which makes them a great choice when you’re trying to lose weight as they help keep you full and satisfied, and, they’re good for your heart too. Plus, they’re easier to prepare than dried beans, as they don’t need to be presoaked and cook up in just 15 to 30 minutes.
Just about any type of dried bean is extremely affordable and good for you, so choose any type you like and you’ll be getting a bargain when it comes to your health.
Bananas are a terrific, cheap superfood to take on the go. Choose organic so that you don’t get the pesticides along with its powerful nutrients like potassium – the average cost is just 33 cents, compared to 26 cents for the non-organic type.
Tea is probably the best beverage choice you can make, except of course for water. It costs an average of just ten cents per bag, and, both green and black tea are packed with antioxidants that can help strengthen your immune system and promote heart health.
Kale is a low cost superfood. As one of the most talked about superfoods in recent years, just one cup offers ten times the daily value of bone-healthy vitamin K, as well as three times the daily value of vitamin A. It’s also loaded with vitamins B and C, and calcium. And, all of this for around 60 cents a serving!
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Garlic is an incredible superfood. It not only adds lots of flavor to your meals, but it averages only pennies per clove and contains a multitude of active phytochemicals. The active ingredient released when garlic is crushed, allicin, stimulates the immune system, and this same compound has even been found to help with weight loss as its anti-bacterial effects work to reduce unhealthy fats and cholesterol.
To maximize the effects of garlic, be sure to crush or mince it first. Then, allow it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes before cooking.
Eggs are also incredibly economical. You can use them to make all sorts of meals, for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Free-range eggs do cost more than conventional eggs, but they’re still just 25 to 33 cents per egg and contain 13 essential nutrients, including protein. Eating eggs can help fight cravings for less healthy foods and help to maintain muscle mass too.
Organic Raw almonds is run and average of 63 cents per one-ounce serving. Almonds offer healthy fats that can help keep your energy levels up, making them an ideal snack in between meals. Just keep in mind that they are high in calories, so limit your consumption to just one ounce, which is about a handful.
Yours in Health,
Danette
