Healthy Eating on a Budget
In the UK, the cost of living crisis is having a huge impact and people are finding it more and more challenging to afford to consume a healthy, balanced diet.
According to the UK National Statistics, February 2024, the food and non-alcoholic beverage price has increased by 10.5% since April 2023 (1).
This might be concerning, however, I am here to take you through 6 simple tips and tricks to help you shop, cook, and eat more cost-effectively.
Write a shopping list and plan your meals
Check what foods you already have at home and use these to help you meal plan. Stick to your list when you go food shopping to avoid buying unnecessary things.
2. Avoid going food shopping when you are hungry
This can impact what and how much you buy. You usually end up buying more when you are hungry, increasing the bill and potentially leading to waste later down the line.
3. Try to buy seasonal fruit and vegetables
They tend to be cheaper and can help us eat more sustainably. Some examples of April seasonal fruit and vegetables are rhubarb, mushrooms and spinach.
4. Swap meat for plant-based sources of protein every now and then
For example, beans, chickpeas and lentils. They tend to be cheaper, last longer, and are low in fat and good sources of fibre.
5. Love your freezer!
Lots of food such as bread and other perishable foods can be frozen (check the food label for guidance on this). This can help these foods last longer and reduce waste. Freeze leftover home-cooked meals (if suitable) to reduce waste, save money, and help you out on those days when you are busy and don’t have time to cook from scratch.
6. Use up leftover fruit and vegetables
Add leftover vegetables to pasta sauces, omelettes, rice, or make homemade soups. Add overripe fruit to milk or yoghurt to make a smoothie.
This blog is aimed at adults
This blog is intended for information only
The advice given is generic advice for supporting a healthy diet and lifestyle. For specific medical conditions please seek advice from your GP.
References:
