By Tanya Wilson
360You
The last couple of weeks have been a struggle for me with holiday foods around every corner. My weakness is chocolate cake and homemade dressing and gravy.
The good news is that holiday meals are few and far between. It’s great to enjoy all the goodies around this time of year, but it is in our best interest to return quickly to healthier choices.
Over the years I have observed consumer choices while grocery shopping. It’s interesting to see the amount of processed food and sugar laden products rolling down the conveyor belts. Very little fresh or frozen vegetables and whole grains purchased, particularly in stores that have a higher population of African American and Latino shoppers. As a matter of fact, many of the stores located in these communities do not even stock large quantities or varieties of fruits, vegetables and whole grain products.
This becomes important when you begin educating yourself on the connection between food and wellness. According to recent studies by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, African American’s have higher instances of disease, disability and health risks when compared to any other group.
Eating healthy is often thought to be time consuming and expensive. But when you do the research, there are lots of solutions making healthy eating quick and affordable.
Because the topic of health and wellness is so important to me, I want to share some of things that have helped me. I am hopeful that they will serve as a starting place for you and your family.
• Buying in bulk is a good alternative particularly for larger families. Some of the shopping warehouses offer prices that are affordable. Establishing a co-op with family and friends to bulk share, can save even more money.
• Clipping coupons is also a great way to save money on items like cleaning products, paper products ect. freeing up more dollars for whole foods. In addition to coupons in the newspaper, there are many online coupon solutions.
• Consider other sources for protein instead of high concentrations of meat. Beans, nuts, eggs, are just some sources of protein to consider.
• Shop at the local farmers market. You will be amazed at how much money can be saved by paying a visit to your local farmers market. Early morning is the best time to go. Often at the end cap’s there are bagged vegetables and fruits that are marked down that make great soups, casseroles and sauces.
• Take your lunch to work. You will find that brown bagging will leave more available money in your budget.
• Grow your own food. Consider partnering with friends and family to plant and harvest your own vegetables and fruits. If your property doesn’t offer space, many community parks have plots available at very affordable rates.
As this year comes to a close, I encourage you to get into the drivers seat of your own budget, health and wellness. Careful consideration of the fuel you are offering your body will pay dividends in the area of health. More importantly, our children will model us. Let’s release ourselves from poor eating habits, leading to improved health, clearer minds and the energy to take the world by storm with God leading the way.
Read more columns by Tanya Wilson, an inspirational speaker based in Charlotte. Find her on Facebook.
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