14 Cheap Foods That Are Good for You

Brown rice is an affordable whole grain that provides long-lasting energy and is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It’s a great base for many dishes and helps promote digestive health, making it a nutritious and budget-friendly staple.

Canned beans, such as black beans, chickpeas, or kidney beans, are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and iron. They’re inexpensive, versatile, and can be added to salads, soups, or stews to create filling and nutritious meals.

Cabbage is an incredibly affordable and versatile vegetable, rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Its crisp texture and mild flavor make it perfect for a variety of dishes, from fresh salads and slaws to hearty soups and stir-fries.

Cabbage is also great for fermentation, turning into gut-friendly sauerkraut or kimchi. With its long shelf life and nutritional benefits, cabbage is a budget-friendly staple that can add crunch and nutrients to your meals.

Apples are a budget-friendly fruit that’s both nutritious and delicious. They are high in fiber, particularly soluble fiber like pectin, which supports digestive health, and vitamin C, which boosts immunity. Apples are incredibly versatile—they can be enjoyed fresh as a snack, added to salads for a sweet crunch, baked into desserts, or even cooked down into sauces.

Eggs are a cheap and versatile source of high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals like B12 and choline. They can be used in a variety of dishes, from scrambled eggs to omelets, and are a cost-effective way to meet your daily protein needs.

Bananas are an inexpensive fruit that’s rich in potassium, vitamin C, and fiber. They make a quick, nutritious snack and can be added to smoothies, cereals, or yogurt for a healthy boost. Bananas are also gentle on the stomach and easy to digest.

Peanut butter is an affordable source of healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins like vitamin E. It’s versatile and can be spread on toast, added to smoothies, or used as a dip for fruits and vegetables, making it a satisfying and nutritious option.

Canned tuna is a budget-friendly protein source that’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids and important nutrients like selenium and vitamin D. It’s convenient and can be used in salads, sandwiches, or casseroles, providing a healthy and affordable meal option.

Sweet potatoes are a nutrient-dense, budget-friendly vegetable that’s rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. They can be baked, mashed, or roasted, offering a versatile and healthy addition to any meal.

Carrots are an inexpensive vegetable that’s high in beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamin K. They can be eaten raw, steamed, or roasted, making them a versatile and nutritious option for snacks or meals.

Lentils are a low-cost legume that’s packed with protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and folate. They cook quickly and can be used in soups, stews, or salads, providing a filling and nutritious option for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Whole grain pasta is an affordable and nutritious carbohydrate source that’s high in fiber and provides more vitamins and minerals than regular pasta. It’s versatile and can be paired with a variety of sauces and vegetables for a balanced meal.

Greek yogurt is a protein-rich, budget-friendly dairy product that’s also a good source of probiotics, calcium, and vitamin B12. It can be eaten on its own, mixed with fruits, or used as a base for smoothies, providing a nutritious option for any meal.