I had such a blast presenting my workshop on “Healthy Eating on a Budget” a couple months ago. Here is a little about the audience and the inspiration behind this workshop:
- Mostly older adults (50+)
- Great interest in healthy eating as well as organic and non-GMO foods
- Low budget for food (some are on government support, which could be as low as $25 per week)
- healthy eating on a budget
Now let’s make this clear: no planning tips can beat how low this budget is. With these food and cooking tips, you will be able to stretch out your budget and get the most out of it. Although, it may not mean that it magically eliminates suffering from food insecurity.
Workshop Recap: Healthy Eating on a Budget
- We discussed several little nutrition truths to beat the big myths! If you were to eat solely based on headlines in the media, you’d end up being terrified of everything and eating nothing.
- Eat foods that are as close to their origin as possible – the simpler, the better.
- When it comes to eating organic, if you can afford that then, by all means, go ahead! If you have financial limitations but have some wiggle room, check out the list below.
- Use beans and legumes for a cheap and delicious protein source. There was a question regarding reducing flatulence, so some tips on reducing that are discussed here.
- Last but not least, I demonstrated and showcased how versatile beans can be as they absorb any flavours you’d like to introduce to them. We also highlighted the concept of using leftovers in multiple ways.
Is buying organic really important?
Well, let’s break this down.
Organic foods are produced without the use of pesticides, fertilizers, genetically modified organisms, antibiotics and growth hormones. The farming practice alternates the use of different produce so that the soil can benefit from the nitrogen balance. Some studies show that this allows the produce to be more nutrient dense as a result.
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a non-profit organization that strives to protect the environment. They release a list of foods that are the highest in pesticides (DIRTY DOZEN) and a list that’s the lowest (CLEAN FIFTEEN). Below is an image to show what these foods lists are.
In my mind, I imagine the foods that have thinner outer shells are more easily penetrated with chemicals – such as leaves; there’s nowhere to go once it gets sprayed!
If you are currently not buying organic foods but would like to, aim to buy one item off the Dirty Dozen list in its organic form. Either stick to it, alternate or add to it at your comfort.
At the end of the day, eating vegetables and fruits is more important than how it’s grown, ESPECIALLY if you are financially struggling. Prioritize your nutrition goals; eating real food first, and then thinking of luxury second.
Do you need help with your nutrition goals?
Whether it’s to figure them out, organize them, prioritize them or come up with a plan to achieve them, I can help!
Book a free consultation with me and we can talk it out. I only have 6 slots available every week, so book yours, today!
