Healthy Food Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive

“It’s too expensive!”, the number two excuse for avoiding organic food; second only to “but…pizza”.

Healthy eating is a commitment, we won’t deny. It might take a little more time and effort, but it doesn’t have to be expensive.

We’re sure you’ve seen exorbitant price tags on organic food, but before you give up on your eating-healthy resolution, check out our tips and tricks to help you shop smarter.

Instead of leaping in with both feet, take your time to slowly transition into the healthy lifestyle. Once you get familiar with the prices, you can make better choices with brands and outlets.

These lists were made to alert health nuts about what they should buy organic, and what doesn’t need to be organic, and will be equally good for you.

• Apples
• Celery
• Tomatoes
• Grapes
• Nectarines
• Peaches
• Potatoes
• Spinach
• Strawberries
• Blueberries
• Sweet Bell Peppers
• Lettuce

• Onions
• Avocado
• Sweet Corn (watch for GMO)
• Pineapple
• Mango
• Sweet Peas
• Eggplant
• Cauliflower
• Asparagus
• Kiwi
• Cabbage
• Watermelon
• Grapefruit
• Sweet Potatoes
• Honeydew Melon

Head to the bulk bins! Not only will you get to pick firsthand the produce that you want, you can also skip the extra packaging prices and get them for cheaper!

Meats, cheeses, and milk are products that are most likely to contain injected hormones and high levels of pesticides. Unfortunately, they are also the most expensive organic foods! For health reasons, you may choose to buy these organic and buy other products conventionally.

Choose fruits and veggies that are in season! They are less likely to contain pesticides – plus, they will be cheaper. But if you must have them all year round, opt for frozen alternatives.

Always jot down a rough meal plan for your week before heading to the store. Avoid the impulse to get more food than you need and save it for next week’s budget instead! This way, you can also improvise on recipes with slightly cheaper alternatives.

Don’t write off the locals just yet! Head down to the local farmers’ markets. They sell fresh, pesticide-free foods that are much cheaper than your typical grocery stores and supermarkets.

Look out for coupons and promotions both online and in the newspapers! You’ll be amazed how saving a little here and there can add up.

If you have time on your hands, start a little project in your backyard. Plant a garden and grow your own crops. You will gain a new skill and save some money – win-win! Not sure where to start? Read this article on easy-to-plant foods.