Everyone knows that pregnancy can be an expensive time. Aside from buying maternity clothes and a whole range of pricey baby equipment, you need to eat healthily. Luckily, good nutrition doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, with some planning, you can save money and ensure you and the little one are getting all of the necessary vitamins and other nutrients. Here are several tips that might help you eat on a budget.
Save money on carbohydrates
In order to keep your energy levels up you will need to eat foods that are rich in starchy carbohydrates. The good news is that porridge oats are a cheap breakfast solution, and they will help you feel full. Unfortunately, constipation is often a side effect of being pregnant. In week 16 of the pregnancy, your uterus will press on your intestines so going to the bathroom might become a challenge. This is one more reason to eat oatmeal since it can help alleviate this symptom. When it comes to pasta and rice you can always buy them in bulk and save money.
Meat doesn’t have to break the bank
During your pregnancy, you should eat protein-rich foods twice a day. Keep in mind that cheaper cuts of meat are less tender, but can be equally delicious if you prepare them in a slow cooker. In addition, chicken thighs are not as pricey as chicken breasts. Instead of eating meat every day you can replace it with beans, chickpeas, or soy once a week, therefore saving money as well as increasing your calcium intake.
Cheaper dairy foods
Your baby needs calcium for his/her bones and teeth to develop properly. Dairy products are rich in calcium but can be a little bit expensive. Instead of opting for pricey name brands, buy generic milk, yogurt, and cheese. They are cheaper, while the calcium content is very similar.
Fruit and vegetables don’t have to be expensive
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Buying pre-prepared veggies has its benefits, and not spending as much time in the kitchen is definitely one of them. However, pre-cut carrots or broccoli often cost twice as much as the non-cut ones, so try to avoid them. Instead, visit your local market where you can find cheaper produce, especially at the end of the day. As you surely know, most fruits and vegetables are very pricey when they are not in season, so buy them when they are and put them in the freezer.
Prepare home-cooked meals
Ready-made foods are often expensive and not as healthy as homemade meals. Therefore, spending a little bit more time in the kitchen can save you a lot of money, and you don’t even have to slave over a hot stove every day. Instead, cook in bulk, and prepare home-cooked meals for the next three or four days.
Don’t waste food
Did you know that yesterday’s leftovers can become today’s lunch? You can easily turn meat and veggies you didn’t eat the day before into a tasty soup or a delicious casserole. In addition, you can blend leftover carrots and tomatoes and make a healthy vegetable juice drink.
Plan ahead
Before you head out to a supermarket plan your week’s meals so you will know exactly what you need to get. Also, take a shopping list with you so you don’t get tempted to buy something you really don’t need (those flashy sales can be really tricky). And the most important piece of advice – never, ever go shopping on an empty stomach or you will end up buying half of the store.
Who says you can eat healthily and save money? With some planning, you can ensure you and your baby get all the nutrients you need without breaking the bank.
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