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Eat Healthy on a Budget

Eat Healthy on a Budget

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Healthy eating is important at every age – and can be done on a budget. Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods, and dairy or fortified soy alternatives. When deciding what to eat or drink, choose options that are full of nutrients and limited in added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium. Start with these tips:


Plan, plan, plan

Plan your meals for the week based on your food budget and make a grocery list that includes staples and perishables. Use the Shop Simple with MyPlate tool to find savings in your area and discover new ways to prepare budget-friendly foods.

Compare similar products

Locate the “unit price” on the shelf sticker near the item price. Compare different brands and sizes for the best money-saving option.

Stretch your food dollars

Add beans and canned or frozen vegetables to bulk up your meals and make your food dollars go farther. You will reap the benefits of extra fiber, vitamins, and nutrients while feeling full.

Grow your own in your home

Grow herbs like basil and oregano inside your home for a fraction of the price. Small gardens can be grown on a windowsill or a kitchen counter.

Buy in bulk

Save money by buying larger quantities of foods that store well like whole grains, canned or dried beans, and frozen vegetables. Don’t overbuy foods that you will throw out later.

Look for on-sale produce

Grocery stores rotate their sales and buying what is on sale is a great way to save money and get variety. Do the same with frozen and canned items.

The benefits of healthy eating add up over time, bite by bite.

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Shop Simple with MyPlate

Find savings in your area and discover new ways to prepare budget-friendly foods.

Learn more

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MyPlate on Alexa

Get MyPlate nutrition tips on Amazon Alexa devices or the free Alexa app.

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Start Simple with MyPlate App

Build healthy eating habits one goal at a time! Download the Start Simple with MyPlate app today.

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logo for the Dietary Guidelines for Americans

MyPlate.gov is based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025