Health risks associated with trying to save money at the grocery store

As food costs continue to rise, Canadians are being forced to re-evaluate their usual grocery shopping.

For the fitness and nutrition community, common diet staples like meat, eggs, and lettuce are putting pressure on the pocketbook and making it more difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Edmonton sports nutritionist Stephanie Rutko says she has had to change her usual meal plans for those looking for some diet help.

Rutko says the solution can be fairly simple: swap out fresh produce and animal protein with more affordable options.

“It’s actually really easy to do,” she said. There’s definitely options that you can choose that are going to be significantly cheaper.

“Frozen fruit is a great option because not only are you going to have significantly less wastage, but costs are actually going to be significantly better than going with a fresh produce. Protein powders are also a great option as well, when you look at price per gram of protein, it’s actually one of your most affordable options.”

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But there is some concern with swapping out healthy options to save money.

Rutko fears the public’s overall health could decline if cheaper, processed foods become menu staples over whole foods.

She warns in the long run, saving a few dollars could have real health impacts.

“When they’re making these foods, they’re stripping out a lot of the nutrients and especially fibre in it,” said Rutko. “So although you might be getting something that looks cheaper, you’re going to be hungry again about an hour later. Because you don’t have the protein in it, you don’t have the fibre in it, and those are two very essential components in our food that do help stabilize insulin levels and help keep us fuller longer and satiated longer.”

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Rutko also suggests including a serving of protein and a fruit or vegetable at every meal, and following some free advice.

“Make sure you’re walking around, make sure you’re getting enough sleep, you’re drinking enough water. And focus on the basics.”