The Cheapest Healthy Foods: Nutritious and Budget-Friendly Options
Eating healthy doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of nutritious foods that are affordable and easy to incorporate into your diet. Here’s a list of some of the best budget-friendly healthy foods to help you eat well without spending a fortune.
#### 1. **Bananas**
Bananas are a great source of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber. They’re perfect for a quick snack or added to smoothies and oatmeal. Plus, they’re usually priced around $0.55 per pound¹.
#### 2. **Oats**
Oats are incredibly versatile and nutritious. They’re rich in fiber, which helps keep you full and supports digestion. A large container of oats is very affordable, costing about $2 per pound¹. Use them for breakfast, in baking, or even in savory dishes.
#### 3. **Canned Beans**
Canned beans, such as black beans, chickpeas, and kidney beans, are a fantastic source of protein and fiber. They’re also very inexpensive, often costing less than $1 per pound¹. Add them to salads, soups, and stews for a nutritious boost.
#### 4. **Brown Rice**
Brown rice is a whole grain that provides essential nutrients like magnesium, phosphorus, and B vitamins. It’s a budget-friendly staple, costing around $2 per pound¹. Use it as a base for stir-fries, bowls, and side dishes.
#### 5. **Carrots**
Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, fiber, and antioxidants. They’re versatile and can be eaten raw, roasted, or added to soups and stews. Carrots typically cost about $0.77 per pound¹.
#### 6. **Russet Potatoes**
Russet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamins C and B6, as well as potassium. They’re very affordable, costing around $0.60 per pound¹. Use them in a variety of dishes, from baked potatoes to mashed potatoes and fries.
#### 7. **Frozen Vegetables**
Frozen vegetables are a convenient and cost-effective way to add nutrients to your meals. They’re often cheaper than fresh vegetables and have a long shelf life. Look for mixed vegetables, spinach, and broccoli, which can be used in a variety of dishes.
#### 8. **Canned Tomatoes**
Canned tomatoes are a pantry staple that’s both nutritious and affordable. They’re rich in vitamin C and lycopene, an antioxidant that may reduce inflammation. Canned tomatoes typically cost around $0.91 per pound¹. Use them in sauces, soups, and stews.
#### 9. **Eggs**
Eggs are a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. They’re versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from breakfast to dinner. Eggs are usually very affordable, making them a budget-friendly option.
#### 10. **Apples**
Apples are a convenient and healthy snack. They’re rich in fiber and vitamin C. Apples typically cost around $1.62 per pound¹. Enjoy them on their own, in salads, or baked into desserts.
### Conclusion
Eating healthy on a budget is entirely possible with a little planning and smart shopping. Incorporate these affordable and nutritious foods into your diet to enjoy delicious meals without overspending. Happy eating!
What are your favorite budget-friendly healthy foods? Share your tips in the comments below!
¹: Healthline, EatingWell, Greatist
Source: Conversation with Copilot, 06/09/2024
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