25+ Everyday Foods That Are Bad for Your Health and Your Wallet

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to fall into the trap of relying on convenience foods. Many of these foods not only harm our health but also take a toll on our wallets. These are 28 common everyday foods that are both unhealthy and expensive. Let’s explore their negative impact on our well-being, estimate their costs, and find healthier and more affordable alternatives.

Common Everyday Foods That Are Bad for Your Health and Your Wallet

Before shelling out on these items, read this article. Some foods are healthy but not worth the price; others are expensive for both your body and wallet. Thankfully, there are plenty of alternatives that are both budget and body-friendly. (1, 2, 3)

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1. Soda

Sodas are packed with sugar and artificial ingredients that can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and other health issues.
Estimated cost: $1.50 per can.
Alternative: Infused water or homemade iced tea.

2. Energy drinks

Energy drinks are high in caffeine and sugar, leading to potential heart problems and crashes.
Estimated cost: $2.50 per can.
Alternative: Green tea or natural fruit-infused water.

3. Potato chips

Potato chips are loaded with unhealthy fats and high amounts of sodium.
Estimated cost: $3 per bag.
Alternative: Baked vegetable chips or air-popped popcorn.

4. Processed deli meats

Processed deli meats often contain high levels of sodium, unhealthy additives, and preservatives. Estimated cost: $6 per pound.
Alternative: Freshly grilled chicken breast or homemade sandwich fillings.

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5. Instant noodles

Instant noodles are inexpensive but offer little nutritional value and may contain harmful additives. Estimated cost: $0.50 per packet.
Alternative: Whole grain pasta or homemade vegetable stir-fry.

6. Store-bought granola bars

Store-bought granola bars can be loaded with added sugars and artificial ingredients.
Estimated cost: $2 per bar.
Alternative: Homemade energy balls or nut bars.

7. Flavored yogurt

Flavored yogurt may be high in added sugars and artificial flavors.
Estimated cost: $1.50 per cup.
Alternative: Plain Greek yogurt with fresh fruits or homemade yogurt parfaits.

8. Frozen pizza

Frozen pizzas often contain high levels of sodium, unhealthy fats, and preservatives.
Estimated cost: $5.50 per pizza.
Alternative: Homemade pizza with whole wheat crust and fresh toppings.

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9. Bottled salad dressings

Bottled salad dressings can be packed with unhealthy oils, sugars, and artificial additives. Estimated cost: $4 per bottle.
Alternative: Homemade dressings using olive oil, vinegar, and herbs.

10. Canned soups

Canned soups tend to be high in sodium and often contain additives.
Estimated cost: $2.50 per can.
Alternative: Homemade soups made with fresh ingredients.

11. Frozen pre-packaged meals

Frozen pre-packaged meals may be convenient, but they often contain excess sodium, unhealthy fats, and preservatives.
Estimated cost: $6 per meal.
Alternative: Preparing your own freezer-friendly meals.

12. Bottled smoothies

Bottled smoothies can be high in added sugars and provide limited nutritional benefits.
Estimated cost: $4 per bottle.
Alternative: Homemade smoothies with fresh fruits, vegetables, and natural sweeteners.

13. Flavored coffee creamers

Flavored coffee creamers often contain high amounts of sugar, unhealthy fats, and artificial flavors.
Estimated cost: $3 per bottle.
Alternative: Unsweetened almond milk or homemade coffee creamers.

14. Store-bought muffins

Store-bought muffins can be high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and refined flour.
Estimated cost: $2 per muffin.
Alternative: Homemade muffins using whole wheat flour and natural sweeteners.

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15. Frozen breaded chicken nuggets

Frozen breaded chicken nuggets are often heavily processed and can contain unhealthy additives and preservatives.
Estimated cost: $5 per bag.
Alternative: Homemade baked chicken tenders using whole grain breading.

16. Breakfast cereals

Many breakfast cereals are high in added sugars and lack essential nutrients.
Estimated cost: $4 per box.
Alternative: Overnight oats or homemade granola.

17. Flavored water

Flavored water can be high in added sugars and artificial additives.
Estimated cost: $2 per bottle.
Alternative: Infused water with sliced fruits and herbs.

18. Frozen microwaveable burritos

Frozen microwaveable burritos are typically high in unhealthy fats, sodium, and preservatives.
Estimated cost: $3.50 per burrito.
Alternative: Homemade burritos with whole grain tortillas and fresh ingredients.

19. Frosted breakfast pastries

Frosted breakfast pastries are loaded with sugar, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives.
Estimated cost: $2 per pastry.
Alternative: Homemade oatmeal bars or smoothie bowls.

20. Bottled iced tea

Bottled iced tea often contains added sugars and artificial flavors.
Estimated cost: $2 per bottle.
Alternative: Brewing your own unsweetened iced tea at home.

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21. Frozen pancakes/waffles

Frozen pancakes and waffles can be high in refined flour, added sugars, and unhealthy fats.
Estimated cost: $4 per box.
Alternative: Homemade pancakes or waffles using whole grain flour and natural sweeteners.

22. Cookies and pastries

Cookies and pastries are typically high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and refined flour.
Estimated cost: $3 per pack.
Alternative: Homemade oatmeal cookies or fruit-based desserts.

23. Bottled fruit juices

Bottled fruit juices often have added sugars and lack the natural fiber found in whole fruits.
Estimated cost: $2.50 per bottle.
Alternative: Freshly squeezed juices or infused water.

24. Packaged mashed potatoes

Packaged mashed potatoes can contain unhealthy additives, excess sodium, and unhealthy fats. Estimated cost: $3 per box.
Alternative: Homemade mashed potatoes using fresh potatoes and healthier ingredients.

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25. Sweetened condensed milk

Sweetened condensed milk is high in sugar and unhealthy fats.
Estimated cost: $3.50 per can.
Alternative: Unsweetened evaporated milk or homemade dairy-free substitutes.

26. Pre-packaged cookie dough/baking mix

Pre-packaged cookie dough and baking mixes often contain unhealthy fats and high levels of sugar. Estimated cost: $5 per pack.
Alternative: Homemade cookie dough or baking mixes using wholesome ingredients.

27. Flavored cream cheese spreads

Flavored cream cheese spreads can be high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and artificial additives—estimated cost: $3 per container.
Alternative: Plain cream cheese with fresh herbs or homemade flavored spreads using natural ingredients.

The Bottom Line

Making healthier choices doesn’t have to be expensive. By avoiding these common everyday foods that are bad for your health and your wallet, you can improve your well-being while saving money. Opting for homemade alternatives and fresh ingredients is not only more nutritious but also allows for greater control over what you consume. Take the first step towards a healthier lifestyle by making informed choices and prioritizing your well-being.

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