Cutting the grocery budget often means that health choices – like fresh fruits and vegetables – are the first items to go. Cutting corners in the budget does not mean you also have to cut corners on your health.

1. Buy frozen fruits and vegetables. Many of your favorite fruits and vegetables can be found without additives, flavorings, or other chemicals. They are quick frozen just the way nature made them and they still have many of the vitamins and nutrients that your body craves.

2. Make your own. Skip the pre-mixed pancake batters, muffin mixes and even the pre-made bread. Make your own mixes using healthier choices for ingredients.

3. Go whole wheat – pastas, flours and breads are readily available in whole wheat varieties. They are more filling than their bleached out counterparts, so you probably won’t need to make as much.

4. Skip the sugared drinks and bottled waters. Invest a little money in a filter for your faucet and make your own tea, lemonade and even water. You’ll enjoy the drinks more, your body will appreciate the freshness and you will save a fortune that you can use to splurge on a few fresh vegetables or fruits now and then.

Eating on a budget does not mean giving up healthy choices. It may take a little more planning to eat right but it will be worth it for you and for your whole family.