NW Missouri Times

March marks National Nutrition Month, a campaign by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics that emphasizes making informed food choices and developing healthy eating habits. One effective strategy is meal planning, which can help maintain a nutritious diet while staying on budget.

Pam Brown, a registered dietitian at PHS, advocates for proactive planning. "The key to eating healthy on a budget is being proactive," she states. "Planning ahead allows you to make the most of your grocery dollars while ensuring you have balanced meals throughout the week."

Meal planning involves creating a weekly menu that includes all meals and snacks. This approach helps avoid unnecessary purchases and reduces waste by choosing meals with similar ingredients. It also encourages buying seasonal or discounted produce. Sticking to a grocery list is crucial as it prevents impulse buys, which can quickly add up.

Grocery pick-up or delivery services can save time and help stay within budget by avoiding impulse buys in-store. Prepping meals in advance ensures healthy options are always available, reducing reliance on dining out. "Meal prepping doesn’t have to be overwhelming," says Pam Brown. "Start with simple meals that can be made in bulk and stored easily, like soups, grain bowls, and stir-fries."

Eating healthy doesn't have to be expensive. Frozen or canned vegetables often cost less than fresh produce but offer similar nutritional value. Store brands provide quality at lower prices compared to name brands. Incorporating plant-based proteins like beans and lentils instead of meat can also reduce costs significantly.

Cooking at home is another way to save money while controlling portions and ingredients for healthier meals. Simple recipes such as stir-fries with rice and frozen vegetables or one-pan meals like roasted chicken with potatoes are both affordable and nutritious.

For those seeking recipe ideas, MyPlate.gov offers various budget-friendly meal suggestions aligned with dietary recommendations. "MyPlate is a fantastic resource for individuals and families trying to eat well on a budget," notes Brown.

Healthy snacking doesn't need to be costly either; homemade popcorn, hard-boiled eggs, peanut butter with apples or celery, and yogurt with granola are affordable options that satisfy hunger without increasing grocery expenses.

Smart planning plays an essential role in maintaining a nutritious diet without overspending through meal planning strategies focused on whole foods preparation techniques that enhance affordability sustainability over time."Small changes can lead to big savings over time," says Pam Brown.

A simple recipe suggestion includes Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Soup—a convenient dish requiring minimal preparation using frozen ingredients combined directly into the slow cooker—perfectly suited for busy families looking for easy-to-make deliciousness during hectic schedules!