Money is tight for a lot of people at the moment. The cost of energy keeps rising and inflation is at an all-time high in the US, as well as in other countries around the world. This makes eating healthily difficult for many families, especially those with children. The good news is that you can add fruit and vegetables to your diet and make healthy meals without spending a fortune. Here’s how to do it.
Shop at the End of the Day
Most grocery stores reduce their produce at the end of the day, especially at the weekend. Reductions tend to be most common in the meat and dairy section, as these products have a limited shelf life, but it is possible to find good reductions in the fruit and veg section too. Look for pre-packaged produce that’s close to the best-before date. Veggies don’t go off as quickly as meat and dairy, but they do look less pretty as time passes. A pack of sweaty mushrooms, for example, can be finely chopped and added to pasta sauce for some additional nutrients.
Choose Wonky Fruit and Vegetables
Retailers typically only stock fruits and vegetables that look perfect. This means there is a lot of less-than-perfect produce out there that tastes fine while looking a bit unusual. Carrots with extra protuberances or extra-large Brussels sprouts are just as nutritious as normal-sized/shaped veg. If your local grocery store offers wonky veg at a discounted price, snap it up. It may not be suitable for an Instagram photo opportunity, but it will taste just as nice.
Check Your Healthcare Plan
Some healthcare plans offer benefits that let members access healthy foods, like vegetables, whole grains, and dairy products. Check the terms of your healthcare plan and see if you can add grocery benefits. Choosing nutritious foods is easy and it is a good way to make savings on your grocery bill.
Grow Your Own
While having a backyard is desirable when it comes to growing vegetables at home, it isn’t essential. Even if you live in an apartment, you can still grow a few things in tubs and pots. Herbs are easy to grow on a windowsill and tomatoes love a sunny, warm corner. Salad greens are perfect for windowsills and balconies, as are carrots and radishes. Experiment and see what you can easily grow with minimal effort. It’s a fun project if you have kids!
Swap with Friends and Neighbors
Ask friends and neighbors if they grow fruits and vegetables, and if they have something different to you, swap. For example, you might grow salad greens in pots and your neighbor has an apple tree. He can give you apples in return for salad greens. Everyone benefits!
Go Foraging
Foraging is a fun way to pick wild berries like blackberries and also wild mushrooms. Just be one hundred percent sure anything you forage is safe to eat.
Don’t let a lack of money affect your nutrition. Follow the tips above and start eating healthy foods today.
