Eating healthy doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. In fact, making nutritious choices can actually save you money in the long run. By incorporating affordable, healthy foods into your diet, you can improve your overall well-being while sticking to a budget. From antioxidant-rich fruits to protein-packed staples, these foods are not only reasonably priced but also offer a treasure trove of health benefits. Let’s take a look at 21 incredibly healthy and affordable foods:
1. Turmeric
Turmeric has excellent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and is a must-have in any kitchen. This healthy and affordable food adds flavor to dishes and supports overall health.1
Read More: 13 Unhealthiest Drinks On the Planet
2. Dark Chocolate:
Dark chocolate is not only a great indulgence, bit also has great heart health and anti-aging benefits. It’s also rich in antioxidants, so make sure you enjoy it guilt-free.
3. Yogurt:
Yogurt is packed with bacteria and nutrients like calcium, which is great for digestion and strengthening bones.2
4. Avocados:
Avocadoes are a trendy food, yes. But they’re also rich in antioxidants and great for skin health.3
5. Blackberries:
Boost your immune system and fight inflammation with healthy and affordable blackberries. As a berry, these guys are pack powerful antioxidant punches.
6. Masago Roe:
Masago are the edible eggs of a capelin fish. Massage is commonly used in sushi rolls and is low in calories while but high in nutrients. They’re also packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus..4
Read More: Why Does Cilantro Taste Like Soap to Some?
7. Kiwi:
Loaded with vitamin C and E, kiwi is extremely affordable and offers natural anti-aging effects while boosting your immune system.
8. Passionfruit:
Not only healthy but rich in vitamins and minerals, passionfruit supports overall well-being and is especially known to promote strong, vibrant hair.
9. Salmon:
Salmon is great for anti-aging and cognitive health benefits. Like most fish, salmon is full of protein and healthy fats like omega-3.
10. Spinach:
Great for you immune system and in weight loss programs, spinach is full of healthy nutrients and is one of the most affordable foods on this list.
11. Watermelon:
Hydratino is a given here, but watermelon also protects your body against free radicals and provides tons of antioxidants.
Read More: Why You Should Never Buy Precut Fruit
12. Walnuts:
Not only adorable but also a craving killer, walnuts help with sugar cravings and enhance cognitive function.
13. Sweet Potatoes:
Full og vitamins and antioxidants, sweet potatoes have a hand in a multitude of bodily functions, and may even help in reducing the risk of cancer.
14. Wakame Seaweed:
Extremely affordable and unfairly healthy, wake seaweed helps detoxify your body and promotes cardiovascular health.
15. Prunes:
No, they’re not just for the elderly. Prunes combat constipation naturally with their high fibre content and magnesium.
16. Fennel:
Support liver health and protect against cell aging affordably with the antioxidants found in fennel.
Read More: The Best and Safest Way to Store Avocados and Prevent Them From Browning
17. Broccoli:
Broccoli is loaded with vitamin C and K, making it a healthy choice for aiding blood clots and preventing chronic illnesses like cancer and heart disease.
18. Onions:
Rich in antioxidants, onions are a great choice in protecting against inflammation and various diseases. They’re also absurdly affordable (and usually live right beside the sweet potatoes at the grocery store, a great two-for-one!).
19. Canned Beans:
Beans are a plant-based protein very high in fibre. This affordable choice helps support heart health and weight management.
20. Dried Lentils:
High in nutrients like folate and iron, lentils are great for fighting inflammation and improving heart health.
21. Edamame:
A great source of protein and fiber, edamame is not just affordable but might actually lower the risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
Conclusion
Eating healthy doesn’t need to be expensive. By adding some of these 21 healthy and affordable foods into your diet, you can give your body what it needs while making sure your bank account does too. These budget-friendly options offer a wide array of health benefits, so consider adding a few of these foods to your cart and watch your health and savings improve.
Read More: 25 So-Called ‘Junk Foods’ That Are Actually Good For You
Sources
- “20+ Healthy Foods That Will Keep You On Budget and Feeling Your Best.” Investing. Emma Verner. September 11, 2023.
- “28 Healthy Foods That Are Incredibly Cheap.” Healthline. Brianna Elliott, RD. February 28, 2023
- “10 Cheap & Healthy Foods to Buy, According to a Dietitian.” Eating Well. Andrea Mathis, M.A., RDN, LD. April 24, 2024
- “What Is Masago? Benefits and Downsides of Capelin Fish Roe.” Healthline. illian Kubala, MS, RD. September 29, 2023.