It's possible to eat a balanced diet without breaking the bank

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Extract from the article: Eating healthily is the most important criterion for eating well, ahead of eating well. Vegetables and homemade food top the shopping list. But pleasure is still very much part of the equation, with many people indulging in gourmet foods. Despite thi

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Eating healthily is the most important criterion for eating well, ahead of eating well. Vegetables and homemade food top the shopping list. But pleasure is still very much part of the equation, with many people indulging in gourmet foods. Despite this new understanding of health through the plate, consumers are faced with a daily obstacle that deprives them of a varied diet: price.

However, eating a healthy and varied diet is not impossible, even on a slightly tighter budget. It's important to distinguish between wanting to eat healthily and knowing what you need.  «Today, we can see that prices have risen everywhere. But perhaps we need to know more about what makes up a balanced diet, so that we don't fall into the traps of what's being sold. Without guidance, we go for what the manufacturers sell, which is often not the cheapest. The first step to spending less would undoubtedly be to be better educated about nutrition and our real need», says Dr Essoreke Tchaou, Nutritionist-Dietician, Head of the “Santé Durable” practice in Lomé.

Proteins and pulses

«First of all, target seasonal fruit and vegetables, which have a nutritional value linked to the season.These fruits and vegetables generally cost less.Secondly, use local produce or short distribution channels, whenever possible.As soon as you buy local produce, you get very good value for money, and it's cheaper than supermarkets», recommends Dr Essoreke Tchaou, Nutritionist-Dietician.

You should also think about meeting your protein needs. Organic or free-range eggs are perfect for this, and are less expensive than meat despite a significant increase. You can also rely on certain dairy products such as wagashi to supplement your needs.And don't forget to add legumes to your menu.

Elom AKAKPO