Top tips for healthy eating on a budget
Rising food prices and the cost of living can make you question everything you pop in your shopping trolley – and that can make healthy eating on a budget seem tricky.
But we are here to help!
From embracing leftovers to going seasonal, here are our top budget-boosting tips to get savvy at the shops and creative in the kitchen.
The power of planning
A great way to get budgeting is to think ahead. Put together a weekly meal plan so you know what you’re eating each day, then create your shopping list from there.
It can help you to focus on what you actually need – and avoid those in-store distractions!
You can even check food prices online before you go, so you’ll know exactly how much your shop will come to. This also gives you chance to price match different supermarkets. Your favourite might not be the cheapest!
Clear out those cupboards
Before you pop to the shops, take a peek in your kitchen cupboards to look for any forgotten ingredients. Can you turn that long-lost can or packet into something delicious?
It’s also a good chance to check any expiry dates. Just because something is after it’s best before date (BBD) doesn’t mean it’s no longer edible – it’s the use by date (UBD) that’s important here.
Both of these tips can help you to reduce food waste – and can inspire meals using ingredients you’ve already paid for.
Become a supermarket superstar
Want to know our top supermarket secret? Eat before you go!
Shopping whilst hungry can make you more likely to get sidelined by snacks, so try going just after you’ve finished your breakfast or lunch.
And whilst you’re sweeping up and down the aisles, take a look at the supermarket own brands. Although they might be cheaper, that doesn’t mean they’re less tasty! It’s a great way to pick up the things you need, whilst shedding a few pounds off your bill.
Love your leftovers
Batch cooking is another way to beat the budget. By buying some ingredients in bulk, you’ll be able to make extra meals that can be frozen and enjoyed later. Cook once, eat twice!
And for those times when you’ve bought or cooked a little too much, turn those leftovers into a delicious meal for a different day.
Cooked too many vegetables? Turn them into a veggie pasta bake. Cooked too much beef for your Sunday roast? Pop the extra meat into a stir fry.
Keep it fresh
Another way to keep costs down is to go seasonal with your fruit and veg. From spring vegetables and summer berries to autumn root vegetables, it’s a fresher, more sustainable way to get your five-a-day.
You can also stay fresh with your choice of drink. Banish the plastic bottles and choose the wonders of water – it’s healthy, unlimited and completely free!
Need an extra splash of flavour in your glass? Pop in some crushed berries or a wedge of lemon.
Building long-lasting change
By taking small steps, even the most daunting challenge can feel possible! And that’s where our healthy lifestyle support makes a huge difference. We can help you with healthy eating on a budget, moving more, and making changes that work for you.
With tailored programmes aimed at families, adults, teenagers and men, we are here to help everyone feel happier and healthier.
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