First, check yo self!
When it comes to not being able to afford healthy food, there are two types of people:
1.) Those who have budgeted, planned, tried to make it fit their budget, but truly can not afford the food.
2.) Those who spend the majority of their money on unnecessary things, have no spending plan, but still complain about how eating healthy is too expensive.
JMN’s badass RD, Stephany spends $100 or less per week on groceries for her and her boyfriend. My friend and fellow nutrition coach, Laurie King put out a Costco grocery shopping cheat sheet that totaled $115 for the week. The point is, where there is a will, there is a way! Here are some tips to help!
1.) The majority of your food should be minimally processed plant foods. Vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts and seeds in their basic forms are extremely inexpensive.
2.) Buy produce that’s about to expire. Make sure you eat it ASAP or freeze it. Typically, these foods are marked down a lot!
3.) Buy “ugly” veggies & fruits. Companies like Imperfect, Hungry Harvest, and even Walmart sell damaged vegetables & fruits for cheap!
4.) Shop at a local farmers market or join a CSA program. What’s better than supporting local farmers, eating foods that are in season, and saving a little money!?
5.) Buy in bulk! Although it is an initial investment up front, it will save you more money in the long-term. Frozen meats, fish, veggies, and fruit. Eggs, whole grains, nuts, seeds, beans, etc.
Hope this helps!
-J