We are constantly seeing more and more reasons to eat more healthily, but it isn’t always the cheapest option. Don’t let the cost put you off, instead look at small changes you can make so you can then reap the rewards.
Get the basics in
If your kitchen cupboard is well stocked you will always have a fantastic meal at hand, even when the fridge is looking bare.
Tinned tomatoes, olive oil, sardines and tuna, curry paste, coconut milk, pulses, stock cubes and Marmite are great staples. Add a collection of herbs and spices, rice, pasta, flour and noodles and you will be on your way to having a basic, but versatile kitchen that will keep you away from the local take away.
Plan your meals
Boring maybe, but planning your meals for the week can ensure you get a balanced diet and don’t over spend and then waste food. It is amazing just how much food is put in the bin due to over-buying.
Make a shopping list
Once you have your weekly meal plan, write a shopping list and stick to it. Whether you shop online or in-store, try not to be tempted by impulse purchases or special offers. Buy what you need and nothing more.
Buy a chicken
Chicken is a healthy meat option and you get the most for your money if you buy the whole bird. From a whole chicken, you’ll get two breasts, two thighs, two drumsticks as well as the carcass and wings that can be used for making stock. Plan what you are going to make and you will find stir fries, curries, casseroles and sandwiches will be easy, delicious and affordable.
Buy cheaper cuts
This isn’t for everyone but choosing a cheaper cut of meat, such as braising steak, shin or shoulder, can make a great meal for less if you have the time to cook it for longer and add more seasoning.
Go veggie
Going veggie is good for your pocket and health. Meat and fish tend to be the more expensive food items on a shopping list but not always the most healthy. Adding vegetables and pulses to traditional meat dishes like curries and casseroles could make difference to how much you spend and how well your jeans fit and complexion looks.
Cut down on ‘so called’ luxuries
Let’s face it, many of us buy fizzy drinks, crisps, biscuits and cakes which aren’t good for us and can make our bills soar. Go for sparkling water and fruit juice, make batches of flapjack and granola bars and freeze smoothies for an alternative to ice cream.
Shop at the end of the day
You will find most supermarkets discount their fresh items at the end of the day. If you time your visit right and get to the reduced to clear shelf before everyone else, there are saving to be made. Make sure you check the use-by dates and only buy something you will eat or it is a false economy.
Shop around
As well as supermarkets, consider going to independent stores, farm shops and markets for variety and value when it comes to fresh goods.
Use vouchers and loyalty cards
Some people don’t like their every move being tracked, but there are some great store reward systems out there that give money off and if you save them all year, your Christmas shop can be free. Vouchers from magazines and newspapers, money off coupons and freebies might seem cheap but if they save you money and allow you to try new, healthy ideas, why not give it a go?
Happy shopping and healthy eating.