The market is saturated with so called fat-loss products claiming to take weight off fast. Unfortunately, many of these products are either inferior, unhealthy or too expensive. There are ways to utilise your budget to improve your diet without breaking the bank. Here are some tips to keep both your diet and wallet healthy.
There’s no substitute for real foods
It is imperative to become aware of what foods you should be purchasing. Taking the time to educate yourself is a must. A helpful rule of thumb is to seek out foods in their most natural state. Real foods generally do not need a nutritional label. Base your intake around fruit and vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, healthy fats and some dairy.
Stock up
Whenever possible, buy in bulk. The overall cost is often cheaper when you buy in large quantities. Always examine the price per weight between similar products and opt for the one that is the better value. However, it is important not to substitute price for quality. This way you are correctly prioritising better nutritional value while keeping cost in mind.
Go frozen
For years, the debate on frozen vegetables has raged on. Truth be told, they are just as healthy as the fresh ones; it is the canned variety that you need to be wary of. For those tight on time or money, try frozen mixed vegetables. Research has indicated that frozen vegetables maintain the same nutritional value. Not only that, large quantities are often cheaper and last longer than their fresh, unfrozen counterparts.
Create your game plan
As the saying goes – if you fail to plan, you plan to fail. It’s easy to be swayed by treats while shopping (particularly when hungry – try to go when you are satisfied). Avoid aisles you don’t need to visit. Writing a shopping list can assist in greater regimentation. Circling around the outer aisles is always a good move, as you will find more whole foods.
Start from scratch
Costs can also be reduced by making meals from scratch, particularly if you follow the recommendations above. Pre-made meals are often marked up significantly from the cost price. If you have time on your side, cook your own foods using quality ingredients. Not only you’re your meals taste better and have higher nutritional value, you will know exactly what you are eating.
Stay hydrated from home
We all know the power of the mighty H2O. Why not utilise it? If you’re after a bit of flavour, try adding a little lemon or lime juice. Not only is water a cheaper option than sugar-ridden soft drinks, it does far more to help the body. If you’re after something hot, opt for black or herbal teas.
Quality examples
Here are a few suggestions of quality items you should be looking to purchase:
– Oats, lentils, beans and mixed nuts, seasonal fruits and vegetables/frozen
vegetables
– Brown rice, eggs, whole grain pasta, whole grain bread, Greek yogurt.
Getting healthy and shedding fat doesn’t have to be an exorbitant expense.
