EAT HEALTHY - EVEN ON A BUDGET

Healthy food can sometimes seem like a budget buster. This is not the case! Healthful, home-cooked meals typically utilize less expensive groceries and cost much less per serving than takeout. Just be sure to do the right prep work, such as:

• Shop for whatever produce is in season. Compare fresh, frozen and canned produce to see which is cheapest.
• Buy nonperishable items in bulk and buy generic. This can add up to a lot of savings.
• Experiment with marinades, herbs and spices in place of salt, oil and cheese in order to give your food that “wow” factor.
• Build the main part of your meal around brown rice, noodles or other whole grains. Use smaller amounts of meat, poultry, fish or eggs.
• Read food labels and choose foods with less fat, sodium or calories, and more vitamins, minerals and fiber.
• Always have a list when you grocery shop and don't go when you're hungry!

Don't feel you need to choose between healthy and cost-effective - sticking to a few, easy-to-adopt guidelines will allow you to eat a nutritious diet while also keeping your grocery bill low.