One of the main reasons people shy away from the paleo diet is because they believe it’s too expensive. However, eating paleo on a budget is definitely possible – you just need to be smart about your choices.
Here are some tips for eating paleo on a budget:
Shop at Farmer’s Markets and Local Farms Whenever Possible
This is where you’ll find the freshest and most affordable produce. You can also find cheap in-season produce which can be quite competitive in prices among different stalls.
Buy in Bulk
When you find good deals on meat or seafood, buy extra and freeze it for later. This will help you save money in the long run.
Buy Directly
If you have a local source for grass-fed beef or wild-caught seafood, buy directly from them. This is often much cheaper than buying from the grocery store.
Get Creative with Your Meals
There’s no need to eat the same thing every day – get creative and experiment with different recipes. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy some of the more budget-friendly options.
Plan Ahead
Meal planning is key to eating paleo on a budget. Take some time each week to plan out your meals and make a shopping list accordingly. By planning your meals in advance, you can make sure you’re only buying what you need and not wasting any food.
Don’t Be Afraid of Leftovers.
Cook once, eat twice – or even three times! Make extra food when you cook so that you have leftovers for later in the week. This will save you both time and money.
Don’t Overlook Frozen
They are often cheaper than fresh produce, just as nutritious, and last longer. Canned goods can be a good budget-friendly option as well, just make sure to check the labels for added sugars or preservatives.
Choose Cheap Cuts and Buy Bone-in
Chicken thighs are usually cheaper than chicken breasts and they taste great. The same goes for other cuts of meat – cheaper cuts are often just as flavorful. Plus, buying bone-in meat is usually cheaper than boneless.
Eggs Are a Great Budget Protein Source
They’re versatile, filling, and relatively cheap. You can hard boil them for a quick snack or use them in recipes like omelets, frittatas, or quiches.
Nuts and Seeds Are Great Snacks
Not only are they nutritious, but they’ll also help you feel full longer. Just be mindful of your portion sizes as they can be easy to overeat.
Grow and Pick Your Own Produce
If you have the space, consider growing your own fruits and vegetables. You can also look for pick-your-own farms in your area where you can get fresh produce at a fraction of the cost.
Keep The Meal Plan Simple
The simpler the meal, the cheaper it will be. focus on using a few key ingredients rather than complicate things with a lot of different flavors.
Make Your Own Meals
There are many paleo-friendly foods that you can make at home for a fraction of the cost of buying them pre-made. This includes items like granola, energy bars, nut butter, and more.
One of the best ways to save money is to cook your own meals. This way you can control exactly what goes into your food and how much you’re spending.
Eat Less
This may seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning. If you’re trying to save money, you’ll need to cut back on the amount of food you’re eating. Just make sure you’re still getting enough calories and nutrients to meet your needs.
Eating paleo on a budget is definitely possible – you just need to be smart about your choices. By following these tips, you’ll be able to save money while still eating healthy, delicious meals.
