Here is a little Food for Thought...
Why is it that we are programmed to think that eating healthier means that we will have to
spend more money? Granted I did have to spend $1.00 the other day at breakfast to swap
out my red potatoes for fresh berries, but am I really losing money if I choose to eat
healthier? I don't think so.
It didn't cost a cent to change the eggs to egg whites, order it without cheese, or ask that
the white bread be replaced with whole grain. I actually saved money by passing up on the
cinnamon roll!
Let's take a look at some of the math:
At a fast food restaurant, I could get a quarter-pounder with cheese, large fries, and a large
soft drink for about $5.95. But wait....that's not all! If you order now we will throw in 1,390
calories, 199 grams of carbohydrates, and 56 grams of fat....WAIT...THERE'S MORE....not
only will you get all of this for $5.95, we will throw in some high cholesterol, 3:00 crashes,
and extra body fat for absolutely nothing!!! (Total time to drive there, order food, pick up at
window, drive back - 10-15 minutes)
Or
I could make a turkey sandwich with whole-grain bread, 3 ounces of turkey, a slice of mozz,
lettuce, tomato, and some reduced-fat mayo and have it with half a sliced apple and a
reduced-sugar yogurt. What's this cost? I totaled it up to about $3.25. How long did it take
to make it? About 5 minutes. What's the nutritional content? Only 411 calories, 11 grams
of fat, 51 grams of carbohydrates (8 grams of which are fiber), and 31 grams of protein.
Still not convinced? Here is a list of other ways to eat healthier without it ever costing you
a cent:
- Ask for dressings and sauces on the side. $0.00
- Ask that the vegetables be steamed and not in butter. $0.00
- SKIP THE FREE BREAD AND CHIPS!!! $0.00
- Substitute starchy foods for fresh vegetables. $0.00
- Order diet soda or tea in place of juices or regular soda. $0.00
- Take half of your meal home for later. $0.00
The ONLY reason I can come up with that eating healthier will cost you more money is that
you will live a lot longer!
Start saving,
