How to Lose Weight & Get Healthy on the Cheap!

My experience so far with losing weight has been an up and down struggle: literally. Along this journey I am discovering one key thing: weight loss is expensive. According to the University of Washington Alumni Magazine, Professor Adam Drewnowski, director of the UW Center for Public Health Nutrition, many times healthier foods are more expensive and out of reach for the poorer populations.

So how does one afford to purchase high quality, healthier products on a budget and is it even possible? Yes, it is. I am going to walk you through a few suggestions to shrink your waistline and fatten your wallet.

I know that at McDonald's, I can get a very filling and unhealthy meal for less than $4, but when I go to a local healthy deli, I'll leave $10 behind. I am not rich by any means, but in our family, we have two adults working full time to bring food to our table. For many, this is not an option and funds often go towards more bulk products that contain higher calories, fat and preservatives. My husband last evening picked up 4 apples...for $4: ridiculous. Despite the high cost at the grocery stores, there are other options to bring healthier food to your family's table.

Many towns in the United States are continuing or beginning the tradition of farmer's markets and produce stands. Our town is fortunate enough to have an amazing farmer's market where I can purchase 3 bell peppers for $2.00-a steal compared to the 3.99 a pound price tag at our regular supermarket. Many items are nearly 50% the cost of what I would pay at the local supermarket and are often fresher, and less fertilized. These are cash markets, so you'll have to hit the ATM before hand, so come prepared. Also-bring your own bags to be a bit more environmentally friendly along the way.