Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Some of the links below are affiliate links meaning that at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you purchase something using the link. Read the full disclaimer policy here. A common excuse that one cannot lose weight is the Budget. It’s true that if you’re on a strict budget, you won’t be able to consume all the foods you enjoy, but this doesn’t mean your budget is responsible for keeping you on a bad diet. There are affordable alternatives for every budget. The following are six Healthy Food Swaps to make when on a tight budget: Soda Instead of consuming soda, switch to teas or water infused with fresh fruit at home. Lemons and limes are super affordable and can make water taste fresh and more enjoyable, just like soda. Granola Bars Instead of purchasing expensive granola bars usually high in sugar, opt for fresh fruits with nuts instead. Bananas, oranges, and melons are generally an affordable and healthy option to purchase year-round. A small bag of almonds can go a long way as you only need a few to meet your daily requirements. Beyond their taste value and low calories, these foods are void of any preservatives that can impact your health over time that many processed foods contain. Meat Instead of red meat, switch to beans, lentils, or fish. Consumption of too much red meat is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and high cholesterol. This means your red meat consumption should be limited to about one or two servings a week. Beans, lentils, and fish are rich in protein and omega fatty acids that are essential for your body to repair itself and your brain to function at its best. Cereal Common cereals found in America are full of sugar, increasing your risk of developing type two diabetes. Not only that, they are void of many nutrients and don’t provide the long-term energy you need to maintain your focus throughout the day. In fact, you are more likely to hit a sugar crash before making it to lunch. On the other hand, oatmeal is rich in protein, fiber, and antioxidants that keep you full and energized without harming your budget. The antioxidant properties also work to improve your immune system. White Potatoes Sweet potatoes are a healthier alternative to standard white potatoes because they are lower on the glycemic index, in carbohydrates, and have more antioxidants such as Vitamin A and C that fight against chronic illness due to oxidative stress. White Carbohydrates or Grains Other refined carbohydrates such as pasta or breads are best avoided and switched to whole wheat grains. This includes oats, whole wheat, buckwheat, or quinoa, just to name a few. Purchasing your grains in bulk can save you many trips to the store and keep you on budget. Improving and maintaining your heart health while on a budget is simple. It all starts with mindfulness regarding what you put in your body. Mindfulness and acceptance of the truth are essential if you want to live a long and healthy life. If you continue to overindulge in these foods, you will significantly increase your risk of poor heart heath.

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