Proper nutrition as a student is essential to give your body all the nutrients it needs for proper function and recovery. A lot of us, besides being students, participate in so many other activities and we must have enough fuel to stay focused and productive. It is important to always include a source of protein, veggies and fruits, carbs and healthy fats. Eating healthy should not be boring, tasteless or expensive and as a nutrition and dietetics student, here are my tips for eating well on a budget: 

  1. Create a Weekly Menu:  

    Planning is key to staying on a budget and eating healthy. Create a menu for the week to decide how many meals and snacks you need, what and how much to buy, and estimate costs. I recommend basing your menu on staple foods and choosing ingredients you can use across multiple meals to cut costs and save time. If you struggle building a balanced menu, ask if your college has a dietitian on campus that you could consult or visit websites like MyPlate for guidance.

  2. Buy seasonal produce:

    Seasonal fruits and vegetables are not only fresher and tastier, but they are also more affordable. When creating your menu, add these options to reduce the cost while still adding nutrients to your meals.  

  3. Frozen and canned food

    Canned and frozen food are a game changer. Canned and frozen food can be bought in bulk and last for a long period of time saving money and time. It also allows for you to include healthy foods that could be more expensive in their fresh versions like berries, seafood, or some veggies. Just be mindful of sodium levels and opt for low sodium or no salt options, as well as no added sugars or saturated fats. A mix of frozen, canned and fresh food is a great budget strategy.  
     
  4. Use Supermarket Apps for Deals  

    There is always a deal, a discount, or a coupon going on that could save you some money. Download the app of your favorite grocery store and never lose any promotions when grocery shopping.  

  5. Check your college resources

    Many colleges might have on-campus food pantries where you could find healthy food at a low or no cost. These resources can help you achieve your nutrition goals while saving some money. If you are not aware, make sure to check it out.   

  6. Meal prep and freeze

    This is my best tool when it comes to saving time, money and ensuring I eat balanced and tasty food.  Once I have the menu for the week, I grocery shop and cook for the week. Then, I pack all my meals, from my breakfast, lunch, snacks and even dinner into containers and finally to the freezer. In this way I just worry about prepping food one day per week and the rest is just grabbing and reheating.