Why Is It Cheaper To Eat Unhealthily?

With all the research that is carried out these days, we all know the ways to keep healthy – eat fruit and vegetables, and get plenty of exercise. We can have treats, but only now and again. It is therefore such a shame that eating healthily is the more expensive option. 

You Have to Stick to Your Budget

Processed foods are much cheaper than the fresh options, but that comes with a price in terms of calories and unhealthy additives. Unfortunately, the government gives more funding to corn and soy which are the basis of most junk food. There are no subsidies for vegetables being harvested even though they rely on humans to farm them, which makes them more expensive than their processed counterparts. The effect of these two factors combined keeps processed foods much cheaper than those which are healthy and nutritious. Therefore, if you are living on a limited budget, you may have no choice but to make at least some unhealthy choices for you and your family. This will unfortunately come at a price.

Are Any Positive Steps Being Taken by The Government?

The governments of some states have introduced sugar and junk food taxes on treats such as potato chips, candy, and sugary sodas. This seems to be working in the same way that they have already done with cigarettes and alcohol. Some initiatives have been introduced to try and make fruit and vegetables a more viable option for those living on a small income. In some states, health professionals can give vouchers for fresh fruit and vegetables to those who they feel would benefit. There is also more advertising for the benefits of eating healthily to ensure that people are aware of the facts. However, this advertising does not mean that people have any more money to spend on fruit and vegetables.

Are the Government Making Things Worse?

There is no doubt that America has a health epidemic in terms of obesity, diabetes, and other associated illnesses. Therefore, why are they choosing now to cut funding in schools for physical education? This was at least one way that you could combat the effects of unhealthy eating without an expense to the parents that they can ill afford.

How Can You Help Yourself and Your Family?

No one can charge you or stop you from going for a walk. It is a great exercise for you and all the family, and you may also have some fun! Try to incorporate some sort of fun activity into your daily routine, even having a dance-off or a game of tennis in a local park. Making a big pan of vegetable soup can feed a family cheaply and give them all the nutrients that they will need. There are also other ways to eat well on a budget and you can get some ideas here.

You can only do your best with the limited funds that you have, but remember that you can get help and you can make healthy choices. You can do this if you really try.