On A Budget? 9 Cheap Ways To Eat Healthier

Posted: 10/02/2011 9:18 am EDT Updated: 12/02/2011 5:12 am EST

By Kristin Kirkpatrick, R.D. for YouBeauty.com

Between specialty food stores and going organic, it can get pretty pricey to eat your best. Luckily, there are tons of actions you can take to not fall into this food trap. It all comes down to planning ahead. I've compiled the tips you need to get on your way to a week of eating beautifully for $36. You can check your progress with the eat pretty quiz below. To start eating pretty for cheap, get your shopping list and the day-by-day menu.

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Eat Healthy On A Budget

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To get the best value in the food world, start buying in bulk. Bagged apples are cheaper than individual apples and a case of chickpeas at a warehouse store (for fabulous hummus you can make at home) will cost much less than an individual can from your local grocery store. More from YouBeauty.com: QUIZ: What's Your Eating Style? Budget Pantry List QUIZ: Track Your Progress with the Eat Pretty Quiz
You've got the menu, now make the list (and stick to it). Budget experts say that making a list and sticking to it can help save you hundreds of a dollars a year on your grocery store bill. Making a list helps in the avoidance of the "impulse" purchases we end up making for products we don't really need.
Look for (and only take advantage of) the healthiest grocery deals. Dried beans, nuts, whole grains, lean meats, dairy, herb products and produce are items that you'll want to stock up on when a sale occurs in your local store. Meats and whole grain products can be easily frozen for use at a later date.
In taste tests, consumers rarely tell the difference between the generic options and their brand name favorites. Remember, the most important aspect of your item should be avoidance of the five food felons.
The cost difference between fresh parsley, basil, rosemary and thyme is huge. Dried herbs last and provide great flavor to any dish! Another option is to grow your own herbs. You can do it year round with a few pots and some TLC.
Most grocery stores provide reward cards to customers that can be used to save additional bucks when shopping on certain items. No card, no deal.
Bring your own shopping bag (some stores credit you for this) and seek out local produce.
You'll pay more if you buy your food products pre cut, pre-skinned, etc.
If you find that a recipe on your 14-day budget menu seems too much for one person, make it anyway and freeze it to enjoy at a later date. More from YouBeauty.com: QUIZ: What's Your Eating Style? Budget Pantry List QUIZ: Track Your Progress with the Eat Pretty Quiz