Weight loss doesn't have to be expensive. Instead of signing up for an overpriced weight-loss program, avoid the gimmicks and eat healthy foods in moderation. Eating on the cheap doesn't have to mean dinners of ramen noodles and packaged macaroni and cheese. Fruits, vegetables and other single-ingredient products are inexpensive, and most of them are healthy ingredients that can be added to a healthy and filling breakfast, lunch or dinner. The best weight loss regimens combine both exercise and a nutritious diet.
Step 1
Fill out your meals with fruits and vegetables, which, whether they are bought fresh or frozen, are far less expensive than ordering fast food or buying a frozen diet dinner. Purchase whole heads of lettuce instead of bagged, washed lettuce. Buy a variety of frozen and fresh fruits and vegetables, paying specific attention to sales and items that can be bought in bulk.
Step 2
Exercise where a membership is not required. Instead of working out at the gym, cancel the membership and run outside, join an organized sports team or go bike riding. Take up winter sports, such as cross-country skiing or snowshoeing when you are unable to bike or play sports during the winter.
Step 3
Avoid eating out. Most restaurant items are more expensive than purchasing the dish's ingredients at the grocery store and making the meal yourself. Incorporate healthy choices into any recipe you make at home, replacing vegetable oil, butter and margarine with non-stick cooking spray or olive oil.
Step 4
Plan ahead. If you will be leaving the house for several hours, pack nutritious snacks that will prevent you from getting food from a restaurant or convenience store while you are out. Pack a snack bag in the car, with raisins, celery, peanut butter and low-fat yogurt. Eating healthy snacks throughout the day will prevent impulse snacking.
Step 5
Stop eating as soon as you feel full and save the leftovers. Even if you don't think you will eat them the next day or two, these leftovers can be frozen and used in other meals as a side dish.
Tips and Warnings
- A proper balance of diet and exercise is required for any healthy weight-loss program.
- Consult your doctor before changing your diet.
Things You'll Need
- Lettuce heads
- Whole-grain bread
- Skinless chicken
- Ground turkey
- Peaches
- Strawberries
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Olive oil
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