If you’ve ever started a weight loss program or a diet plan, you’ve probably come across all kinds of weird ingredients that sport a hefty price tag. That can make getting in shape and living healthily pretty challenging if you don’t have tons of cash to spare!

The good news is, however, with a few pro tips, it’s easy to start eating right without spending tons of money. In fact, with a few quick lifestyle changes, you can eat better and even save money!

So, are you ready to learn how to start eating healthy on a budget? Keep reading and let’s take a look at a few things you need to do to eat better!

1. Stick to Your Shopping List

Remember how we said eating healthy can actually save you money if you know what you’re doing? This trick is one of those ways you can save some cash and your waistline.

When going to the grocery store, it’s easy to get excited by the piles of chips and candy on display. However, not only are these snacks packed with calories, but they also add up, too.

Instead of winging it when you go grocery shopping, make a list of everything you need. Then, when you’re at the supermarket, only buy what’s on your list. This can help you avoid picking up unhealthy choices when shopping.

2. Cook Home Meals

One of the easiest ways to eat healthier is to do all your cooking at home. When you cook at home, you’re able to control your meals better than you would at a restaurant.

The first way you control your meal is by limiting your portions. At restaurants, plates tend to be packed with far more food than you actually need. This can lead to overeating.

Another way homecooked meals can help out eat healthier is that they allow you to control what goes into your meals. You can swap canola oil for olive oil or can opt for lower-calorie milk products rather than full-fat creams.

3. Take Advantage of Leftovers

We’re a big fan of meal prepping. Meal prepping means preparing large portions or whole meals ahead of time so that you only have to heat up the meals when you’re ready to eat.

Not only does meal prepping save time, but it’s a great way for you to avoid being tempted to order takeout just to avoid cooking. When all you have to do is pop a meal in the microwave, suddenly eating healthy gets a whole lot easier.

Leftovers will usually keep in the refrigerator for up to several days at a time. Or, you can really go above and store meals in the freezer to be used months down the line!

4. Try Cooking With CBD

Another quick healthy eating hack you can use is to try cooking with CBD. CBD and hunger have a unique relationship because CBD can actually help curb your appetite.

The reason for this is that CBD can help reduce anxiety and stress symptoms. Stress and anxiety can be associated with overeating or with mindlessly snacking, causing you to take in more calories than you need.

By cooking with CBD, you can help reduce your stress levels and keep your body functioning at its full capacity. Plus, CBD may help reduce your risk of diabetes, adding another health benefit to the mix.

5. Shop on a Full Stomach

Have you ever felt ravenously hungry and suddenly wanted to eat everything in sight? When you get especially hungry, it’s easier to make poor eating choices and to start stuffing your face with junk food that serves as a quick pick-me-up.

Along that same line of thought, when you’re hungry, it’s best to stay home and eat what’s available. If you’re feeling hungry and head to the grocery store, chances are you’ll be more likely to pick up junk food.

When you pick up those unhealthy foods, you’re not just hurting your waistline, either. Most of the time these foods aren’t on your shopping list (remember tip #1?) and can cause you to spend more than you meant to.

6. Buy Whole Foods

Have you ever stopped to compare the prices of certain processed foods with their whole counterparts? If you have, you’ve probably noticed that the whole foods cost a lot less.

For example, it’s far cheaper to buy a bag of dried beans than it is to buy a can of refried beans. And, the refried beans are packed with chemicals used to process them.

Next time you head to the grocery store, look for whole foods. Try checking out block cheese rather than grated cheese or opting for whole potatoes rather than boxed potato flakes.

7. Buy In-Season Produce

One of the many reasons so many people struggle to eat healthily is because produce tends to be expensive. That’s especially true when compared with packaged, processed foods such as potato chips or soda.

However, by purchasing produce that’s in season, you can get your fruits and veggies without racking up a huge bill. In-season produce tends to be available at a lower price, allowing you to skip the junk food and still save some cash.

How to Start Eating Healthy on a Budget: Explained

With this guide to how to start eating healthy on a budget, it’s easy for you to get your health in check. Who knows, you could even lose a little weight with these easy lifestyle changes!

If you found this guide to healthy eating handy, be sure to check out some of our other blogs. We have tons of posts that will help you live your best life!