Inflation has hit grocery stores hard in 2022, causing the price of staples like eggs to skyrocket and levels off at higher prices shortly after. This has led to increasing grocery bills for shoppers, making many wary about their next trip to the store. A November survey found that just over 43 percent of consumers were worried about buying food in light of these rising prices.
Despite the increased costs, there hasn’t been a perceived correlation between the cost of food and poor diets. According to Pollock Communications’ “What’s Trending in Nutrition” survey of registered dietitian nutritionists, affordability and gut health benefits are the leading factors in consumer decision-making at the grocery store. Healthy dieting may encompass higher-cost foods, but it is not impossible to boost gut health on a budget. Some superfoods, which offer additional health benefits beyond being low-calorie or low-carb, are surprisingly affordable.
The key is understanding what qualifies as a superfood and comparing prices to find low-cost alternatives. These superfoods can play a crucial role in promoting gut health and overall well-being. A healthy microbiome, impacted by diet, can affect both physiological and emotional health. Consuming a diet that promotes a healthy gut is essential for maintaining a healthy weight and stable mood.
Clean-eating blogger Tiffany McCauley highlights the importance of focusing on gut health, emphasizing that thoughtful eating can lead to feeling better overall. However, it’s important to note that even healthy snacks like pickles can have drawbacks, such as being high in sodium and needing to be enjoyed in moderation.
GoodRx explains the connection between gut health and overall health, illustrating how mental and physical health are closely linked through the gut-brain axis. Stress can negatively impact gut health, causing abdominal distress and other issues, which a good diet can help alleviate.
Plant-based eating has been on the rise in popularity, with many people shifting away from the keto diet and towards more plant-based options. These diets offer a wealth of super nutrients, including nuts, seeds, ancient grains, pulses, fermented foods, blueberries, avocados, salmon, and mushrooms.
Affordability is a key factor in maintaining a healthy diet, especially as food prices continue to increase. Many trendy superfoods are more budget-friendly than one might expect, making it possible to follow a plant-based diet without breaking the bank. Planning meals based on dietary needs and budget can help maximize nutritional value without exceeding financial limits.
Clean eating focuses on adding essential nutrients to the diet while avoiding unhealthy fats and synthetic additives. Substituting fatty foods with fruits and vegetables can benefit gut health and overall well-being. Dietitians recommend consuming more vegetables, as their fiber content helps promote a diverse gut microbiome.
Incorporating more plant-based foods does not mean giving up meats entirely. Finding a balance between plant-based and animal-based proteins is key to maintaining a healthy and diverse diet. Small changes over time, such as slowly incorporating more vegetables into meals, can lead to improved gut health and overall wellness. Focusing on gut health through affordable, plant-based additions is sustainable for both diets and budgets, ensuring long-term health and well-being.
