We eat to live, and we live to eat. Eating is one thing, eating healthy is another thing. But a lot of people think that eating healthy foods is way more expensive than eating junk food. In this blog, we’re going to take a good look at that idea. Is healthy food really that expensive? And what about junk food – is it actually cheaper in the long run? We’ll talk about the costs of eating healthy versus not eating healthy.

Healthy and Unhealthy Diets

A healthy diet is all about a balanced diet. A balanced diet is filled with lots of different foods that give your body the nutrients it needs to function. Fruits, veggies, grains, lean proteins, etc, are all essential in a healthy diet.

On the other hand, there’s the unhealthy way of eating. These are typically junk foods or food prepared without good hygiene. These are foods that have been processed, packed with sugar or unhealthy fats. 

So why does this matter? Eating healthy helps your body fight off sickness and keeps your energy up. But eating a lot of junk food can lead to health problems, like heart disease or diabetes.

The Immediate Costs:

A burger from a fast-food joint or a pack of chips from the store could cost less than a fresh salad or a piece of grilled salmon. You may then get tempted to go for the cheaper, less healthy options, especially when you’re tight on cash or if you have a credit card. But here’s the issue: unhealthy food might be cheaper, but that’s not all there is to it.

Let’s break it down a little. Healthy foods can sometimes be expensive, especially if they’re organic or out of season. If Mr. Wheeler goes for healthy meals which are actually packed with nutrients and can keep him fuller for a long time, which means he might end up eating less at the end of the day. 

On the other hand, those cheap snacks won’t fill Mr. Wheeler up, so he will have to eat more and spend more in the long run. That’s not all, with higher health care costs from diet-related illnesses. Mr. Wheeler may end up with health issues that could cost him thousands or even millions of dollars. So, when you look at the big picture, investing a bit more in healthy foods now can save you a lot down the road, both in terms of your health and your finances.

Think about it: regular doctor visits, medications, possibly even surgeries or hospital stays – the costs can mount up to the heavens. And it’s not just about the medical bills. Being unwell can mean Mr. Wheeler will miss work, which translates to lost income, or it might even cut his working years short.

Mr. Wheeler needs to understand that spending a bit more on wholesome foods today can lead to fewer medical expenses and a better quality of life tomorrow. 

Environmental Impact of Unhealthy Diets 

The environmental impact of producing processed foods is another cost. These foods usually require more resources and generate more waste and pollution compared to natural foods. This environmental toll can lead to societal costs, and pollution, which might not be directly linked to diet in most people’s minds but are indeed part of the larger picture of what unhealthy eating costs us all.

Strategies to Make Healthy Eating More Affordable:

Eating healthily doesn’t have to break the bank. Mr. Wheeler can use some smart strategies, he can enjoy nutritious meals without spending a fortune.

1. Plan Your Meals: Take some time each week to plan your meals. This can help you avoid impulse buys and make sure you use what you buy to reduce waste.
2. Buy Whole Foods: Whole foods like grains, beans, and seasonal produce are often cheaper and they’re packed with nutrients.
3. Buy in Bulk: Buying in bulk can save you money, especially for staples like rice, beans, and nuts. Just make sure you have a plan to use them before they spoil.
4. Use Frozen or Canned Produce: When fresh produce is too expensive or not in season, frozen and canned options can be a nutritious and affordable alternative. Just watch out for added sugars or sodium.
5. Use Coupons and Sales: Keep an eye out for sales and coupons, especially for more expensive items like lean meats and dairy products. This can help you stock up on staples at a lower cost.
6. Cook at Home: Cooking at home is usually cheaper than eating out.

Bottom Line 

Eating healthy is not as expensive as people think. It just takes some proactiveness. Now that Mr. Wheeler has chosen to eat healthy, he has improved in his looks, and he has even reduced his credit card debts because he now spends less. 

Be like Mr. Wheeler and get rid of all your unsecured debt. Your debt can be reduced by up to 80%, and interest will stop immediately. You can speak with one of our debt experts to know we can be of help to you. Call us at (416) 900-2324 to schedule a free consultation with us. Being debt-free feels good!