Part of National Nutrition Month 2013
The talk of the decade is all
about eating healthy, getting into shape, and shedding years off your life. But
how is this possible to do when it can come at such a hefty price?
Whether you are a college
student, living on your own for the first time, or providing for a large family,
eating nutritious foods is possible
to do on a budget. Stopping by a fast food restaurant on the way home from work
or school may seem cheaper, when it reality you are causing your body and
wallet more harm in the future. In 2008, the CDC found that those who were
obese paid $1,429 more in medical costs than those of a normal weight. Though
you may think buying your dinner three nights a week on a dollar menu will save
you money, it is important to think of the long-term consequences and realize
that your health is not something to dismiss.
So how is it possible to eat
right and stay under budget? It just takes simple planning. Sitting down one
night a week and making a list of meals to eat throughout the week allows you
to buy in bulk and prepare meals ahead of time. Buying in bulk will save you pennies,
as many family-size packages of chicken and frozen vegetables are cheaper! Speaking
of frozen, frozen vegetables may be less expensive than fresh and will last
longer. A few more tips:
- Buy fruits and vegetables in season! They are usually less expensive and easy to buy
- Plant your own garden!
- Cut coupons and buy store brand items to cut the prices
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2012). Overweight and obesity . Retrieved from website: http://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/adult.html
Choose My Plate. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion.
(2011). Healthy eating on a budget. Retrieved from website: http://www.choosemyplate.gov/healthy-eating-on-budget.html
Like this post? Read more Eat Right, Your Way, Every Day posts!
No comments:
Post a Comment