How to be Healthy on a Budget

Many people regard healthy living as a luxury, something only those with expendable income

and leisure time can afford. This is far from the truth, as the majority of healthy habits can be

made through minor and affordable lifestyle changes.

1. Grocery habits

When at the grocery store, make a conscious effort to buy healthy and affordable foods.

Learning to read nutrition labels can be extremely beneficial in leading a healthy lifestyle. By

choosing to buy foods that are healthy and fit your diet, and avoiding foods high in unhealthy

fats, processed sugar, and high amounts of sodium, a healthier lifestyle can be achieved.

Foods such as pastas, lean meats, beans, lentils, nuts, and other healthy, unprocessed

foods are all excellent ways to build a healthy diet. Buying in bulk can save you money on

non-perishable items like oats, beans, and pasta, which are cheaper when purchased in

larger quantities. Opt for generic brands, as store brands often offer the same quality as

name brands at a lower cost. Additionally, buying frozen fruits and vegetables is a

cost-effective choice since they are just as nutritious as fresh ones and last longer, helping to

reduce waste.

2. Exercise

There are many ways to exercise that don't require an expensive gym membership or

equipment. Firstly, not all gym memberships are overly expensive. There are many budget

options, such as Planet Fitness. Many gyms also offer duo or trio gym memberships, or free

memberships for teenagers. You can also engage in free fitness activities, such as

callisthenics, follow free workout videos on YouTube, join community fitness groups, or go

for a run.

3. Drink Water

Drinking water instead of sugary and carbonated drinks is one of the easiest and most

immediately noticeable changes you can make in your lifestyle to become healthy. Water is

not only free (or very inexpensive if filtered) but also the healthiest beverage option. Carry a

reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.

4. Getting enough sleep

Quality sleep is essential for overall health and costs absolutely nothing. Aim for 7-9 hours of

sleep per night to help your body recover and perform at its best.

5. Take advantage of as many free resources as you can

Many communities offer free or low-cost health resources, such as local clinics for check-ups

and vaccinations, free mental health services or hotlines and community events like yoga

classes or nutrition workshops. Taking advantage of these can be extremely beneficial in

leading a healthier lifestyle.

6. Be consistent

Last but not least, being consistent is extremely important to lead a healthy lifestyle. The

person that invests $1000 per month and is inconsistent will be less successful than the

person who invests $100 but is consistent.