3 of 28

Write now Article Tools

In tough economic times it can be difficult to save money and eat healthy at the same time. There are several strategies and tips you can use to stretch your food dollar and still eat a healthy meal.

Buy On Sale

If your shopping for healthy items such as vegetables and fruit it is a good idea to purchase these items when they go on sale. Check your weekly flyers for the best savings and shop around. Look for larger bags of things such as onions, potatoes, peppers, oranges and apples. These are examples of some produce items you can find in bulk bags. Buying produce in bulk provides great savings. Also watch for deals on things like frozen vegetables. You can buy several bags and store them.

Bulk Items

Meat is expensive and buying in the small packets makes little economic sense. Buy things like chicken breasts in bulk boxes which can be found in many supermarkets. Pork and steak can be found in larger packs, these are great to buy too. You could also buy cheaper meats and use a slow-cooker to tenderize the tougher meat. Items like beans can be bought in bags. The beans are dried so you need to soak them overnight. Combine this with brown rice and you have a very healthy, inexpensive meal. Lentils can be bought in bulk for soup. Other items like nuts, seeds, and spices can be bought in bulk. Larger boxes of pasta can provide savings too.

Local Market

Some areas have farmer's markets or smaller stores you can get produce from. Shop these and look for deals. In the warmer months you may also find produce stands in more rural areas. The items you find here are often fresher and of better quality because they were just picked.

Dollar Stores

Dollar stores and discount stores sometimes have good quality items like canned fish and spices. Shop these stores frequently as the stock is constantly changing. You may find some good items if you get there at the right time. Go early in the day to avoid the rush and missing out on anything new.

Change Your Habits

If you eat out, try making more meals at home. You can make a healthy meal at home for very little money compared to a healthy meal in a restaurant. Take a water bottle from home instead of buying one. Even little changes like this can make a big difference in savings over time. Take healthy snacks like fruit, nuts and seeds to work. This will keep you out of the vending machines or away from the food cart on the street corner.

It takes some work, but eating healthier and saving money can be done with a little investigating and smart shopping.

Learn more about this author, Brian Lamacraft.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How to save money and eat healthy?
We want to hear your view. Write now!