A trip to the supermarket is just as exciting today as a family trip to the water park in the past. However, this can be difficult for households trying to keep to a tight budget.
The Heart Foundation reminds Aussies that heart-healthy eating doesn't have to be expensive and encourages shoppers to stay safe and healthy during that time.
"It's more important than ever to maintain healthy habits and eat nutritious foods during this time, and it doesn't have to break the bank," said Julie Anne Mitchell, director of health strategy for the Heart Foundation.
“There are a few tips you can follow on your weekly shopping to choose healthy foods that can save you money and avoid food waste. Frozen vegetables, brown rice, chickpeas and canned fish are just a few of the staple foods you can keep ready for healthy, affordable meals at home. "
Healthy and budget-friendly tips:
- Action plan: Make a shopping list and stick to it. Check what you already have in the fridge and pantry, and only buy what you know you will be using.
- Eat the rainbow: Fill up lots of fruits and vegetables. The more colorful the mixture, the better. Frozen or canned vegetables are a good alternative when fresh products are too expensive.
- Mix it: Buy more vegetable protein sources according to the Heart Foundation's updated nutritional recommendations. Preserved or dried beans, lentils, and chickpeas are cheaper and healthy options for the pantry.
- Cheaper cuts: Look for cheaper cuts of meat in stews, soups, and casseroles. Cut off visible fat before cooking.
- Go for whole grain: Brown rice, whole grain pasta and oatmeal are inexpensive staples for healthy cooking. Swap white bread for whole grain bread and freeze some of it.
- Snack smart: Take a handful of unsalted nuts or a small plate of sliced fruit to curb afternoon cravings. You can also buy popping corn and making homemade popcorn. It is best to simply season it (without salt or butter) or with herbs and spices.
- Healthy hydration: Skip the aisle with sugary soft drinks and energy drinks and make water the drink of your choice. It is healthy, moisturizing and free.
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