Food that is both beneficial for a diet and affordable are foods that are less processed. The most nutrient-dense and healthy food to incorporate into your diet is "real" food that is minimally processed, or not processed at all, such as fruit, vegetables, grains, nuts, seeds, beans and legumes. Highly processed, "man-made" foods such as cookies, crackers and frozen entrees are products that come in a package and typically include a lengthy ingredient list. Real food can improve your diet and be less expensive if you are a savvy shopper, avoid highly processed foods and shop from the source.
Step 1
Shop around the exterior of the grocery store for diet-conscious food. Fresh produce and the bulk section are typically located on the exterior aisles and will include the most nutritious foods for your diet such as fruit, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts and seeds. The center aisles of the grocery store tend to be stocked with processed foods that may be more expensive and full of empty calories.
Step 2
Purchase diet-conscious food with no ingredient list, or with an ingredient list that is familiar. Processed food often contains additives, fillers and preservatives which are not as healthy -- and can be more expensive. The consumer pays more for the packaging, advertising and added ingredients than for the product's nutritional value. An apple doesn't have an ingredient list, but processed apple juices may have a list that includes added sugar, colors and preservatives.
Step 3
Purchase diet- conscious food directly from the source. Grocery stores make a profit on the products that are purchased from them. All products, including animal products and bi-products such as meat, poultry, fish, milk and eggs, may be less expensive if purchased directly from the farmer or artisan. Search for a co-op or farmer's market to compare prices.
Step 4
Use coupons when purchasing diet-consious food. Most grocers offer discounts in the form of a membership card or paper coupons. Prepare a grocery list prior to attending the grocery store and search for coupons to save on those products.
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