Creating Cheap, Healthier Meals

Last week, we started discussing how to eat healthier. However, a common complaint is the cost. Does healthier eating really cost a lot more or just feel that way?

According to Reuter's Health, a Harvard study found it only costs an extra $1.50 per person per day to eat healthier. Some people can "find" this extra money by re-prioritizing. However, the study authors acknowledge that even this small amount can be taxing on very tight budgets.

So, here are some money saving tips... (because who doesn't like saving money while eating healthier?!?).
- Look for sales, use coupons, &/or price shop. (There can be big price differences from store to store. Or, try a farmer's market or Community Support Agriculture program.)
- Make a list & stick to it.
- Don't shop when hungry.
- Choose in season vegetables & fruits (or consider frozen or canned varieties).
- Buy what you need & use what you buy.
- Store foods properly to extend quality.
- Keep a well-stocked pantry.
- Consider buying generic products.
- Add in healthy but cheaper items (like beans, brown rice, whole grain pasta, etc.) to supplement meat.
- Learn cooking techniques to improve cheaper cuts of meat (e.g., crockpot, marinate, etc.).
- Avoid buying convenience foods. (Although, sometimes the cost is worthwhile...)

For more details, check out:
- ChooseMyPlate's Better Eating on a Budget
- EatingWell's 6 Simple Changes That Could Help You Save $2,997 a Year
- EatingWell's 13 Cooking Tips to Save You Money
- US News & World Report's 5 Secrets of Frugal Grocery Shoppers
- MSN Money's How to Eat When You're Really Broke.