The words affordable and healthy can very rarely be found in the same sentence. When I think of healthy foods, I automatically assume these foods cost more. Think about it – vitamins, supplements, and other such products are generally higher in price than the average foods, right?
When I was blog-hopping today I saw someone remark, “It feels like only the rich deserve to be healthy.” (For the life of me I can’t recall where I read that – If it was you who said it, let me know and I’ll be sure to give you credit!) That is certainly how I feel at times!
But, you know what? It is possible to provide your family with vitamin-rich foods, and healthy alternatives, on a budget. Shopping frugally, with your family’s health in mind, takes a bit more time and energy than most of us care to exert, but it is doable!
There are plenty of good and affordable foods – healthy foods – that may already be part of your family’s diet. Let’s look at a few, shall we?
Broccoli
Broccoli is high in Vitamin C and Vitamin K. It contains fiber and multiple nutrients that boost the immune system. Fortunately all of my kiddos love broccoli, but if your kiddos don’t care for it, you can hide it in many of your family’s favorite dishes.
Eggs
One egg has 13 essential nutrients in varying amounts – including high-quality protein, choline, folate, iron and zinc – for only 70 calories. Eggs also play a role in weight management, muscle strength, healthy pregnancy, brain function, eye health and more. Eating eggs doesn’t have to just mean that you scramble them for breakfast every day… There are so many meals that you prepare that include this vitamin-rich food.
Yogurt
Yogurt contains Vitamin B2, Vitamin K, and is packed with calcium – All good for growing kiddos! Among many other benefits, yogurt is believed to promote good gum health, as well.
Oranges
Oranges provide many healing properties, including antioxidant protection and immune support. One of the greatest benefits of this delicious fruit is that one orange provides more than 100% of the daily recommendation of Vitamin C! Now, how’s that for a cold-busting snack? Not only are oranges the perfect snack, but they also add quite the flavor to any recipe.
So, stop thinking that healthy equals expensive. Start thinking – and planning – creatively!
