Grocery prices continue to put a strain on household budgets, but nutrition experts say eating healthy doesn\u2019t have to break the bank.<\/p>\n
According to the Consumer Price Index, food prices were 3% higher last month compared to the same time a year ago, making it more expensive for families to fill their grocery carts.<\/p>\n
Despite the rising costs, registered dietitian Julia Zumpano with the Cleveland Clinic says nutritious foods are essential for fueling both the body and mind.<\/p>\n
\u201cFood is medicine, in my opinion,\u201d Zumpano said.<\/p>\n
She recommends planning meals ahead of time and only buying foods you know you\u2019ll eat to reduce waste and stretch your grocery budget.<\/p>\n
Start with produce<\/p>\n
Fresh fruits and vegetables should be the foundation of your grocery cart, but there are several ways to save money if fresh produce isn\u2019t always affordable.<\/p>\n
\u201cWays to help cut the cost of those would be buying seasonally, buying locally, or buying in bulk,\u201d Zumpano said. \u201cAnd then lastly, buying frozen or canned, depending on your budget.\u201d<\/p>\n
The U.S. Department of Agriculture also recommends choosing produce that\u2019s in season, which is often more affordable and widely available. During the summer months, shoppers can typically find apples, green beans, strawberries, tomatoes and summer squash among the seasonal options.<\/p>\n
Choose affordable protein sources<\/p>\n
While premium cuts of meat like grass-fed beef can be expensive, Zumpano says there are plenty of budget-friendly protein options, including:<\/p>\n
Fresh or canned fish, such as sardines<\/p>\n
Lentils<\/p>\n
Beans<\/p>\n
Dried peas<\/p>\n
Legumes<\/p>\n
Nuts and seeds<\/p>\n
These foods provide protein and other important nutrients at a lower cost than many meats.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t skip healthy carbohydrates<\/p>\n
Zumpano also recommends adding complex carbohydrates to your shopping list, including:<\/p>\n
Brown rice<\/p>\n
Oats<\/p>\n
Whole-grain flour for homemade bread<\/p>\n
These foods are rich in fiber and nutrients and can help create filling, balanced meals.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor you to feel your prime, at your prime, eating good nutritious food is essential,\u201d Zumpano said.<\/p>\n