Thriving Through: 10 Ways to Stay Healthy during rising costs and School holidays

As a Registered Nutritionist, navigating a cost of living crisis and school holidays while maintaining a healthy diet can be challenging, but not impossible. Here are the top ten tips to help you stay on track during these demanding times. 

Meal Planning and Cooking at Home:

Make a weekly meal plan based on budget-friendly recipes and ingredients.

Use leftovers creatively to avoid food waste and maximise your food budget.

Consider batch cooking and meal prepping to have convenient and healthy meals ready throughout the week.

Buy in Bulk and Opt for Generic Brands:

Purchase grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds in bulk to take advantage of lower prices per unit.

Look for store brands or generic options for pantry staples like rice, pasta, and canned goods to save money without sacrificing quality.

Compare prices per ounce or unit to make informed decisions on cost-effective purchases.

Limit Eating Out and Takeaways:

Set a budget for eating out and prioritise special occasions or affordable eating out options to control expenses.

Prepare restaurant-inspired meals at home to copy your favorite dishes at a fraction of the cost.

Explore meal kit services or subscription boxes for discounted introductory offers and convenient meal solutions.

Embrace Plant-Based Proteins:

Experiment with vegetarian or vegan recipes to incorporate cost-effective plant-based proteins into your diet.

Expand your culinary skills with versatile ingredients like tofu, lentils, and quinoa for protein-rich and budget-friendly meals.

Replace meat with legumes in traditional recipes such as chili, soups, and stir-fries to reduce grocery expenses.

Drink Water and Limit Sugary Beverages:

Invest in a reusable water bottle and carry it with you to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Infuse water with fruits, herbs, or vegetables for a refreshing and flavorful alternative to sugary beverages.

Brew herbal teas or prepare homemade iced tea for a hydrating and budget-conscious beverage choice.

Utilise Leftovers and Reduce Food Waste:

Get creative with leftover ingredients to craft new dishes, salads, or wraps for a balanced and sustainable meal approach.

Practice smart storage techniques like labeling, portioning, and freezing leftovers for quick and convenient meal options.

Use kitchen scraps or vegetable peels to make homemade broths, stocks, or compost to reduce food waste and promote sustainability.

Explore Affordable Exercise Options:

Utilise online workout videos, fitness apps, or social media platforms for free or low-cost exercise routines.

Engage in outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, or nature walks to stay active while enjoying the benefits of fresh air and sunlight.

Join virtual fitness challenges, community classes, or recreational sports leagues for social interaction and physical well-being without expensive gym fees.

Utilise Public Spaces for Exercise:

Visit local parks, trails, or community centers for open spaces and facilities to engage in physical activities like yoga, calisthenics, or group workouts.

Participate in free or donation-based fitness classes, boot camps, or group runs organised by local fitness enthusiasts or community organisations.

Create a home workout routine using household items, bodyweight exercises, or resistance bands for a cost-effective and versatile fitness regimen.

Prioritise Mental Health:

Incorporate stress-relief practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness exercises into your daily routine for mental wellness.

Connect with supportive friends, family members, or online communities to share experiences and seek emotional support during challenging times.

Explore affordable mental health resources like counseling