Raw Foods on a Budget

This post was inspired by recent publications by Kelli “Bliss” at Simply Raw Bliss and Tonya Zavasta at Beautiful On Raw.

Unless you are an ostrich with your head in the sand, you are undoubtedly aware of the 'economic crunch' as it is called. Whether the whole thing is blown out of proportion remains to be seen, but the fact still remains that people are feeling the pinch right now. We are all looking for ways to stretch a dollar and one of the first places we start is with our food budget. People are sometimes under the impression that it costs a lot to be on a raw food diet, but that is certainly not the case if you take a few preventative measures. With Spring and Summer quickly approaching, it's the perfect time of year to trim the food budget and develop habits that will serve you well even when times aren't lean.

Shop at farmer's markets or buy direct from farms

Buying local and seasonal produce is one of the best ways to save money and assure you are getting the freshest food possible, and you may realize significant savings buying this way. If you can find a local farm which offers U-pick, even better. You will know for certain that your food has not been sitting on a supermarket shelf for days losing precious nutrients.For bulk items such as seeds and nuts, which keep very well, you might want to join a co-op and stock up on items when they go on sale.

Eat more greens

Greens are one of the most economical foods to buy and are extremely versatile. You can use them for juices, soups , green smoothies, salads, and wraps. Leafy greens are nutritional powerhouses, sure to give you the most bang for your buck.

Eat free food

Dandelion, chickweed, nettle, miner's lettuce and purslane are just a few of the 'edible weeds' that can be obtained absolutely free! Be sure you know what you are doing or consult a book on plant identification to avoid any mishaps. With spring approaching, you will most likely be able to find some classes or nature walks in your area that address this very thing.

Eat only twice a day

That is all the food that a healthy body actually requires. It is one of the most health enhancing and money saving tips you will ever find. If you keep your meals simple, such as the recipes presented in "Quantum Eating", you will not end up buying extra unnecessary ingredients that just weigh you down.

Make a menu and only buy what you need

This will help prevent you from buying impulse or unnecessary items that you will be tempted to east just so that they don't go to waste. But in essence, if you are overeating or overspending, they do anyway. Also, keep to whole foods and avoid the expensive superfoods and supplements. With a balanced raw food diet you shouldn't need these things on a regular basis.

Use your leftovers wisely

On the raw food diet, nothing should go to waste. You can use your leftover pulp from making juices or nut mylks to make a variety of dishes, such as crackers or nut cheeses. Use your imagination or browse online for recipes. When making your morning juice, make extra and use it for soups later in the day, as outlined in the book "Rawsome Flex".

Fast Days

Fasting one day a week is a foundational practice in the raw food lifestyle for many people. The savings you will realize will be doubly rewarded due to the fact that you save money on health care in the long run. Give your body and your pocketbook a rest one day a week.

Grow your own

Nothing beats your own fresh organic produce if you have the space and capabilities to garden. Even planting a few containers of vegetables and herbs on the patio or jars of sprouts in the windowsill will be of value, both financially and nutritionally.

As you can see, there are several ways to take the raw food diet to a whole new level in regards to simplicity and economy. Even if you are already accustomed to some of these tips, I hope you will find some new ideas here to try that will boost your pocketbook and your health.

Happy Spring!