Eating healthy doesn’t have to be expensive.  Just because we’re on a budget doesn’t mean we have to buy the cheapest bag of potato chips.  Here are some budget friendly foods that can keep you on the healthy track without breaking the bank:

1. OATS:  You can’t beat good old fashioned oats!  Purchase the most reasonably priced brand at your local grocery store.  One serving of oats (1/2 cup) provides a healthy dose of fiber and when eaten daily, has been shown to reduce cholesterol.  
2. EGGS:  Never leave the grocery store without a carton of eggs in your basket!  Eggs are loaded with satisfying protein to keep you full during the day.  Eggs can be eaten at any meal.  You can scramble them, poach them, make egg salad, or my favorite, make an omelet with what every veggies you have in your fridge.
3. LEGUMES (BEANS):  I often refer to beans as the perfect food.  Beans not only provide a healthy dose of carbs, but are loaded with fiber and protein!  Carbs, Fiber, and Protein are the main components of a healthy meal.  The most economical way to purchase beans are in bulk.  Cook a large batch over the weekend that way you have a quick and easy “go to” food during the week!  Beans can be thrown into a salad, mashed in a sandwich, or, if you’re creative, you can create your own bean hummus and use it to dip veggies in!
4. FROZEN FRUITS & VEGGIES:  Frozen fruits and veggies are just as nutritious are fresh!  Frozen fruits and veggies are processed at peak ripeness, blanched (which causes minimal loss of soluble vitamins, then flash-frozen, all within hours of being picked.  Frozen fruit can be added to muffins and/or pancake mix; use in smoothies; blend and heat for a topping for pancakes, waffles, yogurt, or oatmeal.  Frozen veggies can be added to soups, stews, eggs dishes (omelets or mixed with scrambled eggs), stir fries, and used as side dishes.
5. WHOLE GRAIN PASTA:  Whole grain pasta contains more fiber than regular pasta.  This can be purchased in bulk as well!  A great way to incorporate whole grain pasta into a meal is to boil the pasta and drain.  Add any sort of legume (chickpeas are a great choice), and add a frozen veggie such as broccoli, or a bag of mixed veggies to the meal.  Season with  a little olive oil, salt & pepper.