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Ever feel like it’s nearly impossible to eat healthy without going into debt or having to sell your left arm? Same…Being a graduate student, I have to be careful about what I spend my money on. However, I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks over the past few years that help get me through! Next time you go to the grocery store, stock up on these items!

1. Beans, Beans, the Magical Fruit…

Anybody else recall that children’s song? Anyway, beans are a great (and inexpensive) way to pack in tons of protein and fiber! And there are a ton of different varieties – black beans, chickpeas, kidney beans, the list goes on! Purchase canned beans that are free from any harmful BPAs and toss them into salads for lunch or grind them into hummus for a tasty snack.

Average price: $.99 per can

2. Oats

Old fashioned oats have a special place in my heart. There’s just something about a warm bowl of oatmeal. Oatmeal is full of soluble fibers that can stabilize your blood glucose levels and help lower your cholesterol. AND they’re extremely versatile. Toss in nuts, nut butter, or fruit for a little bit of variety. The possibilities are endless!

Average Price: $1.79 per container

3. Eggs

Eggs are another versatile, healthy, and inexpensive food to stock up on. They’re full of fats and protein! Make eggs into omelettes or toss hardboiled eggs into salads. If you’re watching your waistline, be aware that the yolk contains all of an egg’s fat. So if you want more than one egg in one sitting, be sure to eat a mix of whole eggs and egg whites (which contain only protein).

Average Price: $2.00 per dozen

4. Sweet Potatoes

Yet another guilty pleasure of mine! Sweet potatoes are delicious if you cook them properly. This complex carbohydrate contains tons of vitamin A and vitamin C. Turn them into mashed sweet potatoes, bake them, or roast sweet cubes in the oven (this is my favorite recipe!)

Average Price: $2.44 per 3 lbs. bag

 

Written by GUADS staff member Angelina with contributions from everydayhealth.com, skinnyms.com, & webmd.com, & walmart.com