Staying Healthy In Tough Economic Times
Tough economic times has just about everyone looking for ways to save money
. Some are even cutting back on doctor visits and other medical needs to keep money in their pockets. This moving saving move could end up costing you big in the long run. You should find alternative ways to save cash. For example, learn how to shop for healthy inexpensive groceries and change your workout regime from the gym to walking, gardening and other household activities. Also, find ways to save on health care.
Just about everyone is looking for ways to pinch pennies and save money during these tough economic times. Unfortunately, neglecting doctor visits and ignoring ailments is the route many are taking. Some are putting off their health needs, not filling prescriptions in order to keep more money in their pockets. However, this money saving move could end up costing you big in the long run. Avoiding a small health issue could mature into something much more serious and costly. It is always best to spend the necessary funds to maintain good health and find alternative ways to save on cash.
Save Money and Stay Fit
If you don't have money for a gym membership, thats doesn't mean you have to become inactive. "You dont have to go to a gym to get the wide range of health benefits of exercise," says Steven Blair, PhD, professor of exercise science at the University of South Carolina.
Fitting in just 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity activities -- walking, gardening, even doing housework -- substantially reduces the risk of chronic diseases, according to the latest federal physical activity guidelines. Building and maintaining muscle strength may take a little more ingenuity. One option: learn a set of basic calisthenics that include push-ups, sit-ups, deep knee bends, and leg lifts. Another alternative: buy an inexpensive set of stretch bands, which can be used to do dozens of strength-building exercises.
Healthy Foods Seem Pricey
"Some of the healthiest foods out there are actually the least expensive," says Kathy McManus, PhD, director of inpatient nutrition services at Brigham and Womens Hospital in Boston. A few examples:
Beans. Theyre a great low-calorie source of fiber and protein. And they cost pennies a serving, especially if you buy dried beans and soak them yourself. Add beans to pasta sauce, chili, or soup. Or serve them as a side dish, seasoned with your favorite spices.
Peanuts. Rich in protein and heart-healthy oils, peanuts are a relatively inexpensive and filling snack. The lowest priced peanuts are typically found in the bulk food aisle.
Homemade breakfast cereal. Instead of buying an expensive packaged cereal, make your own by combining whole oats and other grains, raisins, nuts and seeds bought in bulk
Make-them-yourself beverages. Save money by skipping expensive bottled beverages and make your own by brewing up tea for iced tea or adding a splash of fruit juice to carbonated water.
Frozen vegetables. If fresh vegetables are too expensive, head for the freezer aisle. Because vegetables are flash frozen soon after being harvested, they may contain higher levels of antioxidants than fresh vegetables that are a day or two old, says Allyson Mitchell, PhD, a crop scientist at the University of California at Davis. Another option: raise your own vegetables. More and more people are gardening, which offers not only a harvest of healthy foods but also a way to stay fit.
Cooking at home instead of eating out is another way to save money and stay healthy, especially when you skip processed foods and cook from scratch. Home-cooked meals tend to be lower in fat and salt than restaurant offerings. Surveys show that people who eat at home are less likely to be overweight or obese.
Need Affordable Health Coverage
The best way to save money on your health care is to prevent problems from arising. Health coverage is how you protect your health and it could save you money. If you already have insurance, then you are ahead of the rest. It is an investment that often times pays for itself. Routine doctor visits and screenings is the best way to prevent diseases and other costly health issues. Remember, that you should always comparison shop for
health coverage. Don't just buy a
health insurance plan online; Take advantage of health insurance agents. At no extra cost, they provide you with assistance in finding a plan that best suites your medical needs at the lowest cost. If you don't have health coverage, you should not continue to neglect your health. Good health is essential to keep you functioning at your highest level at work and home.
by: Lenneice Drew
The Truth About 6 Pack Abs Is Everywhere, But Does It Work? Can Vitamin D Support Breast Health? Part Ii Of Iii Plastic Surgeons Use Cheek Implants To Fill Inadequate Cheek Volume Treat Cold Sores Quickly - Banish Forever Boosting Quality Of Life With Tips For Healthy Aging The Top 8 Myths And Truths About Antidepressants The Benefits Of Water Tea Extract Weight Loss-surprising Studies Revealed Tasty Treats Can Be Healthy Too The Health Consequences Of The American Lifestyle Winter Fashion 2010 Breast Reduction Surgery: Know The Health Benefits It Holds Winter Car Servicing