Eating Healthy & Locally:

Eating real, unprocessed food is not only better for our health, but it's also better for the environment. Unfortunately, many people believe that eating healthy, unprocessed food is expensive and out of reach for them. However, with a little bit of planning and creativity, it's possible to eat real food on a budget. Mindful shopping can lead to better eating!

Firstly, it's important to understand what real food is. Real food is minimally processed and free of additives, preservatives, and other harmful chemicals. It's food in its natural form, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. We all buy packaged foods that may be a little (or a lot) less heathy for the sake of convenience, but these items are often misleading in just how "fake" they really are.  One good habit to start is reading the labels off some of you favorite food packages recognizing what ingredients are missing or added that you know are bad for your health - like high fructose corn syrup, a popular and cheap supplement for real food having no nutritional value, it is "fake" food. 

One of the most effective ways to eat real food on a budget is to cook at home. This allows you to control the ingredients you use and the portions you eat. Buying in bulk can also help save money, especially when it comes to staples like rice, beans, and nuts. The internet is flooded with quick recipes using minimal ingredients for healthy and easy meals. Another way to save money on real food is to plan your meals in advance. This helps you avoid impulse buys and reduces food waste. Start by making a list of meals for the week, and then create a grocery list based on those meals. Stick to the list when you go to the store and avoid buying items that aren't on it! Don't underestimate your ability to quit the junk!

When shopping for real food, it helps to prioritize certain items. For example, organic produce is great, but it can be expensive. Instead, focus on buying organic versions of the "dirty dozen" - the 12 fruits and vegetables with the highest pesticide residues. These include strawberries, spinach, kale, nectarines, apples, grapes, peaches, cherries, pears, tomatoes, celery, and potatoes. In addition to being better for our health, eating real food is also better for the environment. Real food has a lower carbon footprint than processed food, and it supports local farmers and businesses. Many fruits and vegetables can be purchased at your local farmers' market at lower costs due to these items being organic and perishable.

Finally, it's important to remember that eating real food is not an all-or-nothing proposition. You don't have to completely overhaul your diet overnight. Start by making small changes, such as swapping out processed snacks for fresh fruits and vegetables, and don't forget to read the labels of your favorite brands switching  to those with real ingredients.

In conclusion, eating real, unprocessed food is essential for our health and the health of the planet. With a little bit of planning and creativity, it's possible to eat real food on a budget. By prioritizing certain items, cooking at home, and planning meals in advance, we can enjoy the many benefits of real food without breaking the bank.