Budget for Healthy Eating - Aviva Allen's Blog

Budget for Healthy Eating

Posted by on in General
  • Font size: Larger Smaller
  • Hits: 5477
  • Print

Guest Post

Posted by: Wai-Ke Kim, Certified Financial Planner

Food ShoppingThe recent economic downturn forced many families to rethink their spending habits. One item on the family budget that was commonly the first to be slashed was eating out. Now that cash flow has started to become steadier for many Canadians, some are still on a tight budget these days, whether by choice or necessity.

Will you sacrifice nutrition to save money? Make a commitment to some creative planning and you CAN eat healthy while sticking to a budget!

Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Plan ahead: Each week, set aside some time to plan your meals, make a grocery list and go shopping. Planning in advance will keep you from buying on impulse!

2. Buy in bulk/Limit Packaged Foods: Some food items such as dried goods and grains are cheapest when bought in bulk because less marketing/packaging reduces the cost. If you shop at stores such as Costco, remember - quantity does not always equal quality, so be choosy about what you buy in bulk.

3. Buy in Season/Locally Grown: Find out what produce is in season when you plan your meals. If food is in season, it tends to be cheaper. Locally grown food can also be more affordable, particularly at Farmer's Markets (when you cut out the middle man). Not only is this more cost efficient, but it is fresher too!

4. Eat Less Meat: Fruits, veggies, grains, beans and nuts are less expensive than meats and you get more volume for your dollar. Reducing animal products such as beef and chicken will also help lower costs.

A final note: If you want to reduce overall costs to your family, do not skimp on nutrition! If your family is unhealthy, you may end up spending more money in the long run.


Wai-Ke Kim is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) who helps families put together budgets, save for retirement, reduce taxes and much more!

Contact her and mention this article for a free 1 hour Personal Consultation:
O: (416) 491-7400 ext. 524
M: (416) 727-6538
wai-ke.kim@investorsgroup.com

Aviva Allen is one of Toronto's leading Kids' Nutritionists specializing in helping parents deal with their picky eaters. Inspired by her two young boys' adventures in food, Aviva helps children and their families establish healthy eating habits through her nutritional counselling, offering consultations via phone or Skype. Aviva is also the founder of Healthy Moms Toronto, helping connect like-minded moms throughout the GTA.

https://avivaallen.com
Author's recent posts