Despite the fact that America is in the midst of a major health crisis, people are beginning to realize how important it is to eat healthy.  America’s food supply is tainted with antibiotics, hormones and chemicals, and people across the nation are becoming conscious of this reality. Though people want to eat healthy and make better choices, many justify buying and eating conventional foods because they believe that eating organic can be quite costly. What do you do when you want to eat healthy, but also need to watch your budget?  With some education and knowledge, it is possible to chose healthier food alternatives and not break your bank.

First, choose foods that are of a higher priority to buy organic.  Work on getting all of your meats, dairy and eggs organic so you can you be sure that they are free of antibiotics, pesticides and added hormones.  Eggs are a great source of pure protein and also budget-friendly: a dozen eggs cost only about $3.  Even after washing, peaches, nectarines, apples, strawberries, cherries, pears, peppers, celery, lettuce, spinach, potatoes and coffee are found to have a high amount of pesticide residual left so it would be wise to buy organic and avoid these “dirty dozen”.

Another great way to save money is to eat a few vegetarian meals a week.  Meat and fish average a higher cost per pound, while, on the other hand, beans and tempeh are tasty sources of vegetarian protein and cost-effective. I recommend tempeh over traditional tofu for a soy option because tempeh is fermented and therefore much easier for your body to digest.  Even my parents have become tempeh lovers after they tried my tempeh tacos and reubens!

Buying lunch everyday can become very expensive, averaging at least $10 a meal.  Eating lunch out everyday means you’ll be spending $2500 a year -- and that doesn’t count your morning latte! Instead, buy organic deli meat and bread -- usually for much less than $50 a week.  Also try a tasty veggie option such as hummus or avocado with tomato, lettuce and some sprouts for a satisfying healthy alternative.

Eat according to your blood type and body type and you will feel less hungry and have more energy.  Most likely, you will eat smaller, more nutrient rich meals and that means less money out of your pocket.  For example, I am a Type O and do well with a protein and veggie diet.  Carbs are not great for O’s so I only make them about 30% of my diet.  When I eat a lot of carbs, my energy crashes and I reach for sugar and snacks.  Do the breakfast experiment and try a different breakfast food for a week and document how you feel right after you eat and two hours later.  Try a protein smoothie, cereal, eggs and fruit for a different breakfast each day.  This will give you an idea of what foods work best for your body type.

Most importantly, don’t stress out about it.  Do the best you can and enjoy life.  Every little bit you do to incorporate healthier options into your life will bring you one step closer to radiant health!