April 2009

Torn Dollar
Creative Commons License photo credit: blogdnd

Eating healthy can be expensive if you are not catching sales or buying in bulk. Shopping at specialty stores is even more expensive because prices are typically much higher than a regular supermarket. Even if you do tend to spend a little more for your health food, isn't it worth it because it is for your health?

There are ways to save money on your clean eating foods as long as you avoid the pitfalls that can occur with switching to a healthy diet.

Buy Foods in Bulk

Eating clean usually involves eating the same types of food on a regular basis. Lean meats, vegetables, fruit, whole grains and more are usually the types of foods that you will find yourself eating over and over. Since this may be the case for you, you can save more money buy shopping at bulk food stores like Costco.

Don't Buy Organic

Unless you prefer organic foods, you don't necessarily have to purchase them. Foods which are labeled organic tend to cost a little more than their regular versions. If you're on a budget, cutting out organic foods may save you some cash.

Eat The Same Meals Regularly

Most clean eating meals tend to be simple but you can keep it even simpler by rotating the same meals week after week. This can be boring for some but if you don't mind eating the same meals several times a week, then you can save money because you are not having to buy extra ingredients for more complex recipes.

Those are just a few tips to save money on your clean eating shopping list.  Do you have any tips to share?

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bananas
photo credit: shoothead

Some people prefer to workout on an empty stomach but it can be tough to work out when you have no energy. I personally rather have a small meal in my stomach before I workout but what are the right things to eat so that you get the most benefit?

Eat Your Carbs

It's ideal to eat at least 1 hour before your workout. Eating carbohydrates will provide the energy that you'll need but it's important not to eat just any carbs. The best carbs to eat are the complex ones that are high in fiber like whole grains, fruits and vegetables.

Foods high in protein and fat don't digest as quickly as a small meal of complex carbohydrates. However, a meal with both protein and complex carbs is ideal post-workout in order to repair damaged muscles.

Also make sure your meal is small. The last thing you want is a cramp during your workout.

Ideal Foods to Eat Before a Workout

  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Oatmeal
  • Bagel or bread (whole grain)
  • Yogurt and fruit
  • Cereal

Protein shakes are also helpful as a pre-workout meal because they are easily digestable. Do you have a particular pre-workout meal that you like?

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