Eating Healthy on a Budget!

As the end of the year approaches, many persons think about the resolutions they had made in January.

One of the main resolutions many persons had is to be healthy and perhaps lose weight while keeping within their budget.

Whereas fresh fruit and vegetables are the best things to include in the diet, it is not always easy to maintain that kind of diet.

One solution to this challenge is to consider buying frozen or canned vegetables and dried fruits.

Frozen and canned vegetables have gotten negative comments but if you purchase canned or frozen food they are cheaper and last a lot longer.

Look for descriptions on the label like “packed in its own juices,” “packed in fruit juice,” “unsweetened” or “no added sugar.”

Fruits packed in juices contain less added sugar and fewer calories than fruits packed in syrup.

If you are cutting back on sodium, look for descriptions such as “no salt added” and “reduced sodium” on the labels of canned vegetables.
It is best to use canned fruits and vegetables immediately after opening for maximum flavor and nutritional value.

Tips for buying frozen vegetables

Forgo the fat. When buying frozen vegetables, control fat and calories by choosing plain vegetables or those made with low-fat sauces.

Check the label.

Frozen fruits come in both sweetened and unsweetened varieties, so make sure to check the label and choose unsweetened fruit. Frozen fruit bars also make a nutritious snack, but read the label to learn if they’re made with real fruit juice.

Dried Fruits

Pick the plain. Dried fruit contains lots of fiber, vitamins A and C, potassium and folate, but keep in mind that serving sizes are smaller. Also, some dried fruits may have added sugar so read the label.

If you are sensitive to sulfites, check the label of dried fruits to make sure they are not preserved with sulfite, which may trigger an allergic reaction.

Dried fruit is a great portable snack. It can also jazz up salads, pancakes, bread recipes or a bowl of cereal.

Of course eating fresh vegetables and fruits right from your garden is the best way to ensure that you are getting all the right nutrients.

Why not try to grow your very own back yard garden?

Growing tomatoes and other vegetables is relatively easy and will save you spending money at the market.

How do you eat healthy while sticking to your budget?

Let me hear from you!

Teri Ann Paisley

Gleaner online writer

Tags: budget, healthy