7 Healthy Foods for Everyday Eating

7 Healthy Foods for Everyday Eating

Most others believe that an acceptable diet entails high cost imported foodstuffs or exotic supplements. But the thing is that our local Indian markets are full of plain, bio, nutritive foods which are affordable and nutritious at the same time.

In this article, I will tell you about 7 healthy foods that are not very expensive and you will not worry too much about adding them to your daily meals. These ingredients I personally use in my own house and they have enabled me to avoid junk food craving and be energetic and even save money in the long run.

So, leaping right in!

🥜 1. Peanuts The Desi Super Snack

They tend to underestimate the use of peanuts. They are among the lowest cost protein and healthy fats sources. Peanuts are very versatile whether roasted, boiled or grounded to chutney.

The reason it is healthy:

Peanut is high-protein food as well as fibre and good fat that make you feel full longer. They are good snacks, and they can actually enhance the health of the heart when consumed in moderation.

Hint: Roast them in small amount at home a bit with wats of salt and chilli powder - they are ideal with tea!

🍚 2. A Smarter Staple Brown Rice or Para boiled Rice

Rice is loved by all of us. However, substitution of brown rice or parboiled rice can turn around a lot. They are healthier than ordinary polished white rice and just a bit more expensive they even cost more than the same sometimes depending on which.

Why it is good:

These rice are more fibrous and nutritious and thus are able to reduce sugar levels in the blood and clean up the digestive system.

First-hand experience: I changed to para boiled rice six months ago and only a couple of weeks were required to get used to the taste being a little different. It is now much more substantial and satisfying.

3. Fresh local and Cheap Seasonal Vegetables

Purchasing on-season vegetables is also a brilliant strategy of consuming well on a low budget. Having an interest in healthy eating and being able to afford it, vegetables such as carrots, pumpkins, gourds, tomatoes, and spinach are extremely cheap in India during the season.

The reasons it is healthy:

Fresh produce is grown in season, has a low chance of being treed with chemicals and has the nutrients that your body requires during that season.

Tip: Do not go to supermarkets, go to a local market. There will also be cheaper prices and fresh produce.

🍌 4. Bananas, Natures Energy bar

Bananas are the desi power foods. All year round, they can be found, and being super affordable, they make a great way to get a quick energy boost.

Why it is healthy:

Has lots of potassium, fibre and natural sugars. They digest well, keep the heart healthy and even help in muscle recovery after an exercise.

Quick fix idea: Banana idea? Get one of them, and slice it, add a bit of cinnamon and a few bits of crushed peanuts, it tastes wonderful and it feels like dessert!

🌾 5. Millets - The Missed Grains on Return Millets 

Millets were part of the method of farming during the Paleolithic period and can again be used to feed the world. There is enough evidence that millets can be used as the forgotten cure to feed the world.

Of the traditional Indian grains, some of the millets, including ragi, jowar and bajra are experiencing a massive resurgence. They are cheaper than quinoa or oats and ideal to be used in rotis as well as in porridge.

The reason it is healthy:

Millets are contains a large amount of fibre, iron and other important minerals. They aid in controlling weight, digestion, and maintain a level of blood sugar.

Hint: Do experiment with one jowar roti instead of wheat roti a couple of times a week, and you will feel the difference!

 6. Eggs - A Little Package a Big Nutrition

Eggs are sometimes referred to as a complete protein and there is a reason as to why this term holds true. They are also one of the least expensive foods that are rich in proteins with a price of 5-7 rupees per egg.

The healthiness of the reason:

Whether its breakfast and lunch or dinner, eggs are the most ideal nourishment due to its high protein, good fats, and all its other necessary vitamins such as B12 and D.

Personal note: When I am too lazy to prepare a dinner, I would take a masala omelette made with two eggs and stir-fried vegetables.

🥛 7. Pure cow's Milk Yogurt

Curd is a household name in India- and the best thing about it is that it is not expensive and it is as healthy as it is. Curd gives both taste and health benefits when consumed with rice or when raita is made or just as it is out of the pot.

The reasons why it is healthy:

Curd is source of probiotics, protein and calcium. It enhances proper digestion and also a healthy bowel.

Homemade tip: Prepare curd at home by taking a spoonful of old curd and half a cup of warm milk it is cheaper and better than the packaged ones.

Conclusion: Healthy Does Not Cost a Lot of Money- It is Smart

There is no need to spend too much money on imported chia seeds, protein powders or such to eat well. The trick is to take a look at what you have in your own kitchen and what is locally available in markets. A little planning can provide you with a healthy and economical eating on the foods in our Indian way of life.

Be it a school-going or a working or a homemaker and worry no more because 7 of these foods could be incorporated into your daily activities without too much effort or an accompanying budget.