Keep Healthy During These Economically Hard Times

These days it seems like our hopes and dreams for fitness/health are slipping away and even harder to attain. During these economically hard times, we have more time but less money. Fast food seems like a decent option: it's fast, easy, convenient, and most important, CHEAP--but not at the expense of our waistlines. The truth is, staying fit during these times is not impossible. With a little bit of ingenuity and minimal effort, your body will thank you.


Nutrition:

• Farmer's markets are a great find. Produce is cheaper especially since you don't have to pay for extra overhead as you would at a supermarket
• Choose fruits/vegetables in season
• Buy in bulk especially non-perishables and meat. You pay less per pound each time and storage is not a hassle. Portion bulk packages into freezer bags for easy thawing/cooking. Remember to avoid buying meat that is already season. They are usually way more expensive. Season it yourself!
  
• Look out for sales. We don't realize how much money you can save by looking out for sales. Coupons are a great way to take advantage of good deals. Coupon Suzy, I have found, is quite helpful.
• Keep the pasta/rice/potato to a reasonable portion. Not because they are cheap means they should make up most of your plate. Try frozen/canned (low-sodium) vegetable options for a good side if you simply can't afford fresh.
• The truth of the matter is, eating fresh foods is not as expensive as you think. Try buying produce by the bag instead of individually. You will always get a better price.
• Plan your meals for the week and try to incorporate similar fresh ingredients in another meal for that week.
  
• Buy less processed foods and your bill will go down! For instance, instead of buying parboiled boxed rice, buy bags of raw rice.
  
• Buy store brands when appropriate. Usually, they are just as good and cost way less.
• There is no need to go to Starbucks for coffee! Make it yourself! (trust me, this is not a sin... smile). Not only will you save yourself money but you control the calories!
  
• Sometimes, replace the meat in your meals with other protein foods such as eggs or beans
• Filter your own tap water! Not only will you save money but you will be help save the environment.
• Instead of buying 100 calorie snacks, buy a big bag and portion it yourself in a baggie
• Experiment in the kitchen and make a date out of it rather than eating out!
  

Physical Activity

• Take advantage of the extra time on your hands if you are unemployed and get moving!
• Walk to the grocery store if it's not too far away
• Park as far as you can from your destination
• Climb the stairs for 15 minutes during your lunch break (you can burn up to 150 calories in 15 minutes)
• Avoid the elevators and take the stairs. Burn calories, not electricity!
• Walk, walk, walk and enjoy nature. Mix it up with a little jogging here and there
• Do laundry lifts! I know this sounds funny but I promise your arms will thank you. Hold the basket above your head, lift and lower.
• While your doing dishes, do some calf raises. Step to your toes and down again. Repeat.
• Put on your favorite music and dance in your living room with your hubby or by yourself.