Nutritional Director Offers Five Tips To Help Families Eat Right On A Budget

Columbus, OH (AHN) - In the New Year, many people have made resolutions to eat better and make healthier choices. But, as the economy continues its downward spiral, many families struggle to find healthy food options on a budget. Many nutritional foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains cost more than unhealthy options, but there are ways families can stay on budget and make sound food decisions.

"Even though many families will be shopping on a budget in the New Year, nutrition doesn't necessarily have to come in second place to price," Robert Murray, MD, director of the Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition at Nationwide Children's Hospital, said in a statement from the Center. "Parents need to look at what they're paying for and determine if there are less costly ways to achieve the same nutritional benefits."

Dr. Murray, also a faculty member at the Ohio State University College of Medicine, has identified five food fads to watch out for in 2009 to help families make wise decisions about food and their money.

• Fresh vs. frozen: Don't assume fresh is best. Buying frozen or canned can save a lot of money, and recently, preservation and freezing methods have improved the nutritional quality of the fruits and vegetables. Dr. Murray suggests buying frozen fruits and veggies in bulk when they're on sale or freezing their own when they are in season.
• To eat organic?: Organic foods are certified that way because of the methods used to grow or produce the food. "Concerns about hormones, antibiotics or pesticides have driven many to choose organic foods," Dr. Murray said in the statement. "But don't be fooled into thinking that because something is labeled organic that it is any healthier."
• Designer fruits and veggies: Recently, exotic fruits like pomegranate and acai berries have become tremendously popular. These fruits are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, but usually cost much more than other fruits. Dr. Murray suggests eating other dark, ruby-skinned fruits like blueberries, plums or blackberries to find the same benefits with a smaller price tag.
• Fortified beverages: Drinks that are fortified with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants cost more than other beverages and often come with calorie counts as high as sodas.
• Prepackaged goods cost: Grab-and-go foods provide convenience and portion control, but usually cost more. Dr. Murray recommends buying in bulk ahead of time and making packaging them individually at home.