Does Healthy Eating Have to Cost More?

Though it may not feel like it, we have officially entered spring. As pretty pastel shades smattered through magazines begin to filter through to our wardrobes and makeup bags; attention starts to turn towards achieving the ultimate body-con figure.

Whether you’re a bikram yoga devotee or spinning enthusiast, although exercise is essential it’s only half the battle. Eating healthily is a fundamental part of staying fit. But if like the rest of the SheSaidBeauty team, you’ve gorged on one too many Easter eggs you’ll need a few tips on how to get the most out of what’s on your plate.

We’re not talking fad diets here, there’s no cutting carbs and certainly no starvation tactics. Let’s get back to basics; the recommended daily intake for women is 2000 calories. When filled with plenty of high fibre, low saturated fats which is built around three decent meals a day with room for snacking. Like mum always said – eat your greens.

Tempted by sweet treats by the till? Grab an apple before you reach for a Galaxy. A bunch of Fairtrade bananas will keep those mid-afternoon tummy rumbles at bay and are much better for you than sneaking biccies. Whatever you do, don’t shop on an empty stomach.

Get in the habit of only buying what you need. We’re all guilty of gravitating towards what seems like a great deal with ‘Buy one get one half price’ on pizza. Though more often than not, it ends up at the back of the fridge and eventually in the bin, along with the cash you spent on it. Ready meals may seem convenient but are rarely good for you (horsemeat with your pie madam?) or work out dramatically cheaper. Make a list and stick to it to keep groceries within budget.

When you’ve got a spare hour or so, rather than sitting with a box set of Girls, why not rustle up a dish that will last a few days? Also try making your own lunches for work rather than splurging on a cheeky burrito. You don’t need to be a Michelin-starred Masterchef to boil some instant couscous and roast a few veggies. Grab a little hummus et voila! Dinner is served. Just think – the money saved can go towards those shoes you’ve been eyeing up for the past few weeks.

Superfoods loaded with claims of extra nutritional benefits do tend to have premium prices. Though your favourite celeb may be feasting on goji berry extract multivitamin smoothies, you can get all you need from your five a day fresh fruit and veg. As much as we love a miracle product, you can’t beat goodness from Mother Nature.

Eating right helps work towards a healthy body and glowing skin, and that’s always on trend. It is possible to be frugal and fit, it just takes a little organisation and savvy shopping which luckily we females have down to a tee.