Since my mission is all about keeping it real, I realize that a very real concern for most of you is money. The majority of us do not have the luxury to spend lots of money on organic foods, supplements and fancy juices (think Whole Foods). I am right there with you because even though I definitely do splurge on the occasional food product, I am very conscious of how much I am spending and I am always looking for cheap and healthy options. 

Healthy on the cheap

I know this is probably the last thing you want to think about during the holiday season, but use this post as a way to plan your healthy lifestyle in 2015. Pin this post on Pinterest, or share it with friends on Facebook as a reminder 🙂

I made a little graphic with some of my favorite foods that are cheap and healthy options, with explanations of why I have chosen this particular food. Before we move on to that, let me just share some tips on ensuring you are able to stay healthy on a budget.

1. Invest in a long-term gym membership

Gyms usually give better deals if you sign up with them for a year or more, and what better way to invest in your health! Try looking for good gym deals around holidays, as many of them do special offers then.

2. Buy in bulk

A lot of supermarkets (in the US at least) have bulk bins where you can stock up on healthy options such as rolled oats and brown rice for much cheaper than if you bought them packaged.

3. Stock up on canned food

Not all processed foods are created equal! I seriously have a problem with this term as it seems to evoke images of ‘evil’ and ‘bad’ foods. But did you know that distilled water is technically processed? Okay, rant aside, stocking up on canned foods such as beans and tins of vegetables (my fave is artichoke hearts) are a cheap and healthy option.

4. Buy small amounts, but frequently

If you can (because I know you are busy people), try and buy smaller amounts of groceries but go more frequently. I have found that this has help me cut down on waste and only buy what I really need. Needless to say, there are still times where my lovely fresh vegetables go bad!!

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Cheap and Healthy Food Options

Alright, now that you have that advice to bear in mind, here is a handy dandy graphic of cheap and healthy food options that I personally eat all the time. Also, click here and here for some cheap and easy to make recipes!

1. High Fiber Crackers: I love these babies! They are a great source of complex carbohydrates and fiber. Pair with some healthy fats to keep you full for hours.
2. Rolled Oats: A great and cheap option. Can be used in so many recipes for breakfast and dessert.
3. Frozen Tilapia Fillets: Seafood can definitely get expensive, which is why choosing frozen fish is a great option. This allows you to eat it whenever you want without fear of it going bad. Oh, and frozen fish is just as healthy and much cheaper than fresh fish.
4. Salad Leaves: Salad leaves are a cheap and easy way to get in loads of veggies; think wraps, simple green salads, sandwiches and etc. My personal favorite are spring mix 🙂
5. Canned Chickpeas: Chickpeas are SO cheap! 1 can is around $1-2 and is a great source of vegetarian protein and fiber. Such a fun addition to pastas, stews and stir-fries.
6. Cauliflower: Cauliflower is in season, and not only is it cheap but it can be used in so many ways. Try roasting it with some olive oil, salt and pepper or make it into a soup or making cauliflower hash.
7. Eggs: The ultimate cheap food in my opinion, eggs are delicious and healthy for you. They are low in carbs and high in protein. Try having some poached for breakfast, on some high fiber crackers and avocado.

What did you think? If you guys liked this post, then please let me know. Should I make a series of ‘healthy on the cheap’? I only want to make posts that are helpful and useful for you. And please do share this post with others if you find it helpful. Thanks for your continued support of Honestly Fitness 🙂

Do you find it hard to be healthy on the cheap? What do you find hardest?

Honestly yours,
Alice

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