In Santa Monica, there is a myth that is sometimes perpetuated among people that are having a hard time staying in shape. It goes something like this: it’s challenging to eat healthy because “healthy” is more expensive. While it is true that some healthy foods carry a high price tag, there are lots of options that are plentiful and inexpensive, and they’re still good for you. If you speak to a personal trainer in the area, here are some options they might be quick to mention.
Brown Rice
Brown rice is healthier than white rice, as it packs plenty of soluble fiber. It’s excellent as a side dish, but you can also use it in soups or stews, casseroles, and fried rice with the addition of some other tasty add-ons. Santa Monica residents can hardly complain about its price tag, either. A one-pound bag costs less than two dollars in most places and has about ten servings.
Multigrain and Whole Wheat Pasta
A personal trainer is also likely to steer you in the direction of whole wheat and multigrain pasta. Like brown rice, these are better than the traditional variety, because of the fiber content. They contain protein as well. The uses are virtually limitless, as you can try them in all kinds of hot and cold pasta dishes, like casseroles and pasta salads. Once again, the price shouldn’t be a concern, as you can get a 16-ounce box for under two dollars.
Whole-Grain Bread
Santa Monica has many varieties of 100% whole-grain bread at health food stores and grocery stores nearby. Whether you use it for stuffing, bread pudding, or any hot or cold sandwiches, whole-grain bread has both protein and fiber, unlike white bread, which might be tasty but has little nutritional value. A slice of whole grain bread with peanut butter is a snack that’s guaranteed to give you a much-needed energy boost if you feel yourself crashing in the mid-afternoon. A 22-ounce loaf of store-brand whole-grain bread will usually run you about two dollars, and not more than three.
If you speak to a personal trainer in Santa Monica, they will assure you that the myth about healthy foods being expensive is precisely that: a fallacy. You can shop inexpensively and still be healthy. When you take the time to read the ingredients on labels and get a sense of the food’s nutritional value, you can make wholesale changes in your life that will give you more energy and let you shed some weight along with the proper exercise.
