We’ve all heard (and probably repeated) the old adage’ health is wealth’, yet we’re often forced to choose between the two.ย
Take eating well as an example. We all know that choosing healthy foods is essential for maintaining our physical and mental well-being, yet it’s relatively uncommon for the average person to buy organic foods, even though they are of better quality and typically have more nutrients.ย
Why?
ย Well, because their non-organic counterparts tend to cost less.ย
But do they really?ย
Sure, regular produce may be cheaper, but if it contains more pesticides and fewer nutrients, you pay for it in different ways – including with your health organ meat supplements.
Why Eating Healthy, Organic Foods is the Way Forward
Here’s the skinny on organic foods: they’re healthier for you. No ‘buts’ or ‘ifs’ here, unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on how you look at it). Yes, they tend to be pricier than foods grown using the usual process, but research shows that they have more health benefits due to the fact they have more nutrients, including antioxidants, and less toxic metal and pesticide residue.
All of this combined can help boost your immune system, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of various diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer.
Non-organic options, on the other hand, often contain pesticide residues and chemicals that can accumulate in your body, potentially leading to health issues. You get the train of thought here – while organic foods may be more expensive initially, they can actually help save you money (and health) in the long run.
Expensive at First, Cheaper in the Long Run
Healthy eating habits, including eating mostly organic foods, can not only keep you more energetic and mentally sharp, but also reduce the likelihood of developing chronic diseases, which – you guessed it – translates to lower healthcare costs. Fewer doctor visits, supplements, medications, and medical procedures can result in significant savings over time.
But more importantly, investing in your health now means you’re more likely to remain active and productive as you age, which can positively impact your earning potential and quality of life.
Now, we understand that maintaining an organic diet can be challenging on a budget, but we promise you this: it’s absolutely possible. All you need to do is plan in advance and be smart with your shopping.ย
No, you may not be able to eat 100% organic all the time, but even adding some organic produce to a regular diet can make a significant difference.
Here are some affordable ways to eat organic most of the time:
- Buy in Season: Seasonal produce is often fresher, tastier, and more affordable because it’s abundant. For example, berries in the summer and root vegetables in the fall are usually cheaper and better quality. Plan your meals around seasonal produce to get the best deals and enjoy a variety of foods throughout the year.
- Try Meal Kit Delivery Services: Services like Green Chef or Purple Carrot offer affordable, organic, plant-based meal kits that can make it easier to maintain a healthy diet without the hassle of meal planning and grocery shopping. For example, if you’re trying to incorporate more veggies into your diet, vegan meal kits made with organic and sustainable ingredients can help you do it in an easy and affordable way.
- Shop at Farmers’ Markets: Local farmers’ markets often offer organic produce at lower prices because they cut out the middleman. And if you can develop relationships with local farmers, they may even offer discounts or bulk deals.
- Grow Your Own Food: Starting a small garden can be one of the most cost-effective ways to enjoy organic produce. Even if you don’t have a lot of space, you can grow herbs, tomatoes, or greens in containers on a balcony or windowsill. Plus, it’s a rewarding hobby that can improve your physical and mental health.
- Use Coupons and Sales: To save money, consider signing up for newsletters from your favorite organic brands and stores to receive notifications about promotions and sales. Apps and websites like Rakuten, Honey, and Coupons.com can help you find the best deals; plus, many grocery stores offer loyalty programs that provide discounts and rewards on organic products.