When I speak with people about healthy eating, they often respond that it is “too costly” or “there’s no way I can afford to eat that well”. This was how I felt as well. I can recall comparing the cost of conventional meat with the price of grass-fed meat, and feeling anxious to spend more. Certain organic foods, such as fruits and vegetables, were also more expensive. It is clear that quality, nutritious food that is rich in nutrients can be more expensive than fast-food diets. But when you’re deciding on the quality of food to buy, it’s important to consider nutrient density.
The Real Reason To Eat Healthy
Processed foods have been depleted of almost all of their nutrients during the manufacturing process. Although many of these foods are fortified with vitamins and minerals before being packaged, the body does not recognize these forms of nutrients very well. Over time, the body begins to starve. Even though a person may eat and feel “full” their cells are crying out for real nutrition. This often leads to feeling sick and run down as well as having hunger pains that are hard to satisfy.
Eating a healthy diet also means eating high quality foods, including vegetables, fruit, meat and fish. That’s why I advise you to always opt for organic products when you can. Your body will thank you for making the right choice. And to help protect the environment and support local farmers, try to buy regional products where they are available.
You can choose from vegetables, fruits, leafy greens and herbs as well as nuts, seeds, fish, meat, and other foods. These whole foods contain all the nutrients you need to maintain a healthy body and mind (yes, even your mood can be affected by certain nutrients). Many of these nutrients are essential for your body to function well and maintain your health.
Read also: Eat Real Food That Is Good For You
Why You Should Value Nutrient Dense Foods
Some whole foods are more nutrient dense than others. These foods are often called superfoods or green foods. Although a quick glance at superfoods in the store may make them seem very expensive, a closer look will reveal that the serving sizes of these foods may be smaller but are much more nourishing than processed “cheap” foods. Someone with a small budget may benefit greatly from the nutrient density that can be found in superfoods and green foods.
The Power Of Green Foods
Green foods are powdered fruits and vegetable extracts that are generally sold as capsules, wafers, tablets, or powders. They are great for reducing inflammation and nervousness, boosting energy, improving digestion, and detoxification of the body. Often, these foods also contain a large amount of quality, plant-based protein as well.
Why Superfoods Rock
Some common superfoods include: berries, nuts, seeds, legumes, dark leafy greens, avocados, honey, dark chocolate, vegetables with intense colors, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, some whole grains, fatty fish, and citrus fruits. There are also many less common superfoods such as maca, yacon, cacao, Dragonfruit, Goldenberries, and hemp. All of these foods have been shown to strengthen the immune system, fight free-radicals that contribute to aging, boost energy, strengthen the heart, increase metabolism, and enhance the complexion of your skin.
Read also: Add These 10 Foods in Your Diet to Lower Cholesterol
Your Life Is Worth The Investment
Eating an incredibly nourishing diet does not have to mean spending every penny you have on food. Even if you are not able to afford buying groceries that are strictly organic, grass-fed, or farm-fresh, you can greatly benefit from adding in some of these nutrient dense foods without taking a big hit on your wallet. Also, these foods contribute to better overall health which could keep you out of the hospital and off of medications – all things that can be very costly, very quickly.
My name is Maria. I am a fitness instructor by morning/evening, & an avid reader & fitness coach when I can fit it in. I write about being a new mom, a fitness instructor, a wife, and a lover of life!