Grocery shop without breaking the bank

By CJ Blomquist

OptumCare

It seems the healthier the food, the higher the cost. But that isn’t always the case. There are many ways you can enjoy nutritious meals and snacks while on a budget. It just takes some planning.

A savvy shopper can find plenty of affordable foods. One of the main areas to focus on is fruits and vegetables. And with warmer weather on the way, you’ll have more seasonal produce to enjoy.

Avoid pre-prepared foods.

Pre-sliced fruits and vegetables can be much more expensive. A bag of pre-sliced apples can run up to $4.29, while a bag of whole ones can go for almost one-third of that, around $1.69.

Look for cheaper alternatives.

Farmers’ markets often have lower costs and more seasonal options. The Seal Beach Village Certified Farmer’s Market is open from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. every Tuesday in Seal Beach Village, just outside the LW gates. As cold and flu season winds down, it’s recommended you wear a face mask and bring hand sanitizer.

Buy in bulk. Such purchases are cheaper overall. If you’re concerned about the large amounts of food, consider cost-sharing with a friend, especially one with a membership to larger bulk stores, like Costco and Sam’s Club. This way, you can get a greater quantity of healthy foods without spending a lot of money.

Why is this so important?

Your body is what you put into it. If you eat well and get exercise, you’re keeping all your organs as healthy as possible. If you eat a lot of highly processed foods, you are depriving your organs of the nutrients they need. In the long run, that can cause significant health issues. This is especially true if you have a chronic condition, like diabetes or heart disease. A balanced diet can help you manage your health.