Amy Culver - The Queen of Lean

Eating healthy is a challenge when you have to work with limited time or money. It can seem downright impossible when you have too little of either. It can also make you feel guilty about not being able to provide healthier meals for your family. Here are a few small changes that can make a big difference.

Fruits and veggies. Fresh fruits and veggies can be expensive and can take more time to prepare than you have available. Frozen fruits and veggies are a great alternative. Watch for sales or buy from a warehouse club. Frozen fruit, slightly thawed, makes a nice summer treat, while frozen veggies take just a few minutes to prepare in the microwave.
Whole grains and fiber. A small loaf of whole-grain bread is much more expensive than a large loaf of white bread. This is frustrating because sandwiches are often a staple item for large families. If you have budget limitations and have to buy less-healthful bread, look to other sources, such as brown rice, for your whole grains and fiber. If you buy a large bag, it's fairly economical and lasts a long time. To save time, you can cook a large quantity and then freeze it. It's quick and easy to heat up later in the microwave.
Lean Meats. Watch for the sales, buy when it's cheap and freeze it. Keep in mind that less-lean cuts have more waste, so you often get more for your money buying leaner meat on sale even if it costs a bit more than a less-lean cut. You will save money by buying in bulk. And when it's time to plan meals, it's helpful when you can just look in the freezer, see what you have and plan around that. Make a large roast when you do have time available. Slice the leftovers and use them for sandwich meat. Typically, if you can get a roast for around $2 a pound, you'll be paying about the same as you would for lunch meat and getting something that’s more healthful.
Fast Food. Surprised? Since they've been under attack lately many fast food restaurants have made big changes. McDonald's Happy Meals, for instance, are inexpensive and if you get the apple slices and milk, it's an acceptable option once in awhile. Subway has foot-long sandwiches for $5 to $6. Take one home, add some of that frozen fruit and you'll have a decent meal for two.

These are just a few examples to consider. If you truly want to make healthy changes in your lifestyle, don't look for excuses. Look for options.