Have you ever heard the phrase “healthy eating is too expensive”? It’s one of the most common reasons people give for avoiding real, whole foods but is it actually true? After working in a grocery store for a few years, I noticed just how many carts were loaded with processed foods void of proper nutrition. I knew as a dietetics student that more times than not, real, whole foods are actually less expensive and full of fiber, healthy fats, and protein!
In this post, we’re diving into the truth about healthy eating costs and how making better food choices can actually be easier on your wallet.
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What Is Healthy Eating?
Before we talk cost, let’s define what we mean by healthy eating. It’s not about buying organic-only or fancy “superfoods”. It’s about real, minimally processed foods that support your energy, hormones, digestion, and mood!
Some of our healthy staples include:
- Protein-rich foods: eggs, tuna, chicken, beans
- Whole carbs: potatoes, brown rice, oats
- Healthy fats: olive oil, avocados, nuts
- Colorful fruits & veggies — fresh or frozen!
Your body doesn’t necessarily need the next trending protein powders, greens powders, or random supplements. Those will likely increase costs exponentially! Your body CRAVES real, whole, nourishing foods that will support whole body health!
Grocery Haul Comparison: Real vs. Processed Foods
We took a visit to our local Walmart.com to grab a hypothetical week’s worth of groceries. We filled one cart with real, whole foods and one cart with processed foods. Below is our price comparison for both carts:
Now, take a look. What is the difference between these two carts? One nourishes your body with protein, fiber, and nutrients while the other leaves you feeling hungry, inflamed, and with low energy. Plus the prices are around a $10 difference!
The True Cost of Eating Processed Foods
Processed foods often cost more in the long run, not just in dollars, but in your health:
- You may experience more frequent cravings leading you to buy more snacks
- You may experience low energy and have a hard time focusing further impeding productivity and may skip that workout you planned
- Due to lack of nutrition and inflammatory ingredients, processed foods will likely end up in long-term health issues, increasing doctor visits, medications, and medical bills
- You may experience mood swings, hormone imbalances, gut issues, and skin issues
Healthy Eating Is a Long-Term Investment
Before I knew the power of food and proper nutrition, I struggled with gut issues, low energy, acne, poor sleep, and more! At the beginning of college, I made the change in how I was fueling my body and soon saw and felt a huge difference.
When we choose to eat real, nutritious foods, our bodies are able to heal from within and function properly as it should! You’ll feel the difference within a few weeks and set yourself up for good health for years to come!
In Conclusion
So, is healthy eating more expensive? In most cases, no. With smart shopping, basic meal planning, and a focus on real foods, you can eat well without breaking the bank!
Healthy eating is less about spending more money and more about being intentional with what you buy. You don’t need to buy all organic or the latest health trends to nourish your body. Just start with simple, nutrient-dense ingredients to create meals you and your body loves!
When you care for your body with real food, it will take care of you in return!
If you loved these tips, you might also enjoy our other blog posts, or follow us on Instagram @nourisheddietitians for daily inspiration!
Here’s to a summer filled with balance, sunshine, and nourishment!
Stay nourished!
Nourished Dietitians
