Several years ago, there was this idea that we had to have a ton of money in order to be healthy. But, that really isn’t true, you really can live healthy on a budget.
One thing I noticed in my own circles of family and friends is that good solid nutrition goes out the window when money is tight. But, honestly, if you do that, you won’t have the health or strength to work hard to catch up or get ahead.
Sacrificing your health through a poor diet breeds tons of problems. You won’t stay on budget, and you will only fall farther and farther behind, and that is on a good day. We all know that bad things happen, or repairs need to be done.
Yes, if you make fewer doctor’s trips, and are healthy enough to get up and care for your family everyday, then your own personal health is priceless. You just saved yourself and your family a ton of money.
Live Healthy by making changes.
Saving money comes when we make some simple lifestyle changes. It isn’t just about working out or making a New Year’s Resolution to lose weight. But, it means, choosing faith, family, health and life over the quick fix.
When we begin to think about saving money, we look for places where we spend excessively. And, honestly, it usually comes when we use convenience over health. For example,
- We stop at Starbucks instead of making our own coffee to go.
- Drive through a burger joint instead of making a sandwich before work.
- Packing snacks and drinks for the kids before we leave to run errands or go to the doctor.
- Buy junk food or even just processed food over real food.
- Avoid cooking because you would rather scan social media.
Of course, the list can go on and on. Think about what you spend the most money on by simply driving to necessary appointments or on shopping trips.
Further, can you avoid going out and spending gas? Would it even be cheaper to shop online or combine errands so you drive fewer miles?
But, how do we live healthy?
I mean, none of that seems to really save money, does it? Well, if you begin to add up how much you spend on convenience foods, you can save a ton.
But, what about running after toddlers, changing babies and other Mom duties? Can you still save money by cooking and living healthy? Yes, actually you can. Think crockpot or Instapot!
If you are struggling to get organized, believe me, I get it. but, while you eat those microwaveable chicken nuggets ;-), make a meal plan and then a list. Once you get that down, your time will begin to open up.
Take each step of change at a time, but pick what comes easy for you and the rest of your family.
More Tips To Live Healthy On A Budget
You know, really, you could go down to the nearest discount burger, buy ten burgers and save money. Or buy bulk tacos with a coupon and save money. But, the question is, did that make you healthy?!
Even then, if you spend $30 dollars on a 25 pound bag of flour, how many tortillas and loaves of bread could you make with that. Now go back and look at your fast food menu. Did you really save money with that? Probably not.
Things you should consider before you buy junk food:
- How does it make you feel?
- So, you probably got a bargain, but did it save you money?
- Did your kids go to the moon and back when they ate the junk food?
- Serious health problems only get worse on junk food.
So, yes, you can save some money, but you probably aren’t getting and staying healthy. Try these tips below to help you live healthy.
Live healthy in the kitchen
- Buy bulk food items, and sale or seasonal foods
- Try to switch to organic if you haven’t already
- Learn the art of monthly meal planning
- Bake bread and cook your own meals from scratch.
- Stop eating sugar
- Purchase kitchen supplies at the dollar store if you have to.
- Save money making yogurt and getting your family’s guts healthy
- Became a chemist and created my own household spray for counters and appliances.
- Make your own kitchen counter scrub for pennies
Try to live healthy with personal needs
- Make your own lotion or get paraben free lotion at Dollar Tree (Yes they do!)
- Buy electric clippers and cut your kids’ hair (with tons of videos on YouTube)
- How about No Poo? Use vinegar instead!
- Use natural remedies and essential oils
- Shop at thrift stores or yard sales
- Learn to sew your own anything!
- Work out from home: jog, walk, push ups, ride a bike, online video, etc.
- Sign up for medical sharing
- Stop eating junk food and sugar
Make some household changes
- Mix together your own laundry soap and line dry your clothes
- Set the thermostat on high in the summer and really low in the winter.
- Burn wood in the fireplace or get a wood stove in the winter to save electricity.
- Start a garden in the spring
- Practice the art of homesteading.
- Study how to use essential oils, supplements and herbs on pets
Live healthy with family entertainment
- Find screen-free activities
- Can’t go anywhere? Have a family backyard, neighborhood walk, or park event.
- Groupon lists great deals on family outings and sends you emails when they come to your area!
- Sign up for free coupons with fun places you and your family want to go.
- Get outside, or go to the park.
- Plan a campout as a family.
Live Healthy And Save Your Health
Living healthy really does come easier than you think once you step into a new lifestyle! Once you begin to actually begin to feel better and live well, the food tastes better, the sun shines brighter and everyone is happier!
While some things just take a little bit of extra effort to make a change in lifestyle, other things like making your own products, home remedies, and cleaning supplies, requires a bit more energy. However, learning new skills only sparks creativity and a passion for life.
In the end, you will not only get healthier, but save money! Your family will grow closer and get healthier, making your life even better.
A Special Needs Life 
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