Organic, free-range, grass fed,
non-gmo, dye-free and gluten-free are some of the popular labels that accompany
certain healthy food choices these days. Sadly, along with these labels come
high prices. According to global organic farming statistics, in 2009 the United
States was the number one country (followed far behind by Germany and France)
with the largest domestic markets for organic food.
During economic downturns many people The Dirty Dozen
During tough times you may want to avoid these fruits and vegetables unless you
want to buy them organic. The following non-organic foods have been cited as
testing positive for between forty-seven and sixty-seven pesticides:
Sweet bell peppers
Domestic blueberries
Lettuce
Imported grapes
Cherries
Apples
need to tighten their belt and re-assess their purchasing habits. Eating healthy
when times are tough can be a real challenge. It takes a little ingenuity,
patience and research to find where and how you can obtain many of the healthy
foods you’ve come to love and appreciate.
Buy in Bulk but Buy Smart
With so many warehouse shopping opportunities these days it is worth the initial
yearly membership fee to get in on some of the ground floor bargains. By
purchasing food in bulk you can still make healthy choices without paying
exorbitant individual prices. Assess what you or your household consumes on a
regular basis and purchase those items in bulk accordingly. It is important to
not let your wide eyes do your shopping when you enter these havens of
everything or before you know it you will be leaving with four hundred dollars
worth of cases of pickles, candy and mayonnaise. Stick to what will be used
quickly so it does not sit in your refrigerator and spoil or take up necessary
shelf space.
Go Easy on the Flesh
Meat, poultry and fish prices are on the rise almost daily. In addition, many of
these animal products are tainted with antibiotics and irradiation. Cutting back
on your meat consumption and replacing your meals with pasta, rice and beans or
salads will not only go easier on your pocketbook but will definitely add to
more quality health. Legumes alone are high in protein, fiber and minerals that
the body has an easier time digesting and assimilating.
Store brands have become savvier in competing with name brands by improving
their ingredients, packaging and especially, price. Do not be afraid to try
store brand pastas, salsas, snacks, frozen foods and more. You may be surprised
at the comparable quality as well as savings.
Junk Foods are Less Expensive but Can They Be Healthy?
This is a fine line because junk foods have become more inconspicuous with their
packaging and ingredients. Stay away from sugar, high fructose and corn syrup
and instead look for things such as pretzels, crackers, rice or soy ice cream
and the like. These items can be less expensive while at the same time
healthful.
Hopefully some of these tips will help you eat healthy when times are tough.
Preparing food at home and keeping vigilant will go a long way and just may
stick, even when tough times subside.