Eating nutrient-balanced meals is one of the most important things you can do for your physical and mental health, according to Anya Rosen, a registered functional dietitian based in New York.
Thankfully, there are ways to do this on a budget. Here are six ways you can eat healthier without spending your entire paycheck at the grocery store.
Get creative in the kitchen
Some of the more affordable foods may contain even more nutrients.
Build a refrigerator tank
Stocking your freezer with nutritious meals will certainly save you from that tempting late-night takeout.
Smoothies
One of the easiest and cheapest ways to get a nutritious and delicious snack or meal into your diet is with a smoothie.
Healthy tips
Ditch bananas in your basket for apples, for more fiber.
Instead of white potatoes, try sweet potatoes for more vitamin A.
Skip the lettuce and grab some spinach for more folate.
Swap your regular yogurt for Greek yogurt for more protein.
Budget friendly tips
Save by swapping packages of grated cheese for hard or processed cheese.
Buy packaged nuts/seeds in bulk or large packages - this is a savings that applies to most foods, as you pay a higher price for individual packaging.
Likewise, swap your canned beans for dry, bagged beans.
Replace fresh fish with canned seafood. The latter may be a bit off-flavored, but it's still nutrient-dense.