7 Healthcast: Eating healthy on a budget

BOSTON -- We all try to eat healthy but the price can be a deterrent. But one local woman developed a plan for not only staying on track but staying on a budget!

Trying to eat healthy and stay on a budget can be challenging, but it doesn't have to be.

“I think there is a misperception that healthy foods cost more,” said Stacey Neal, Nutritionist at MGH.

Nutritionists at MGH say you can eat well and not break the bank, you just need a solid plan.

“I would say that the two biggest saboteurs to a budget, which is tough anyways, are twofold. First, if you go shopping when you’re hungry, it's all over, so you definitely want to eat or have a snack before you go grocery shopping,” said Neal. “And then the other thing you want to do is bring a list.”

Busy mother Bandita Joarder of Boston says it's hard to make sure her family eats healthy.

“It's not easy, not only do I have three kids, but I have a full time job and I travel, so I really try to make sure we have a good balance,” said Bandita Joarder, patient.

Bandita says her nutritionist from MGH is a huge help.

“She had given me a quick list of things to keep on hand whether it's healthy snacks or quick meals that can be doable,” said Bandita.

Bandita has also created a premade snack drawer, for healthy, economical snacks.

She keeps things like string cheese, nuts and dried fruits in baggies so her family can grab them on the run.

It’s that type of pre-planning that keeps them on track.

“I've spent time planning menus ahead so that I am thinking ahead of time and preparing things ahead of time,” said Bandita.

All great ways to keep her family fit on a budget.

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