FIVE healthy foods in South Africa that won’t break the bank

The cost of living is crazy right now and we want to help, so here’s a list of five healthy foods in South Africa that won’t break the bank. As The South African reported recently, consumer inflation is outpacing salary and South African Social Security Agency grant increases.

Fuel prices and electricity hikes have led to a genuine cost-of-living crisis. As a result, 40% of adults borrow money or use credit to pay for groceries. Eskom electricity hikes (the most recent being 12.8%) mean 20-million homes can’t afford power and simply go without …

FIVE HEALTHY FOODS IN SOUTH AFRICA

Image: Adobe Stock

Basically, times are really tight in Mzansi, and we hope Wednesday 29 May’s General Elections will somehow lead to a positive change. However, until then, we must keep battling on. And when money is tight, very often the first thing to go out the window is healthy eating habits. You can’t blame anyone for opting for the cheapest, most basic foods they can afford.

Unfortunately, they are often less nutritious. But if you know what you’re looking for and shop carefully, you can stock up on these healthy foods in South Africa and have some money leftover at the end of the month. Here’s what we recommend …

1. ROOIBOS TEA

Image: TeaCora Rooibos on Unsplash

Locally grown, Rooibos is rich in antioxidants and has a natural anti-inflammatory. That means it’s super healthy for you. It’s also caffeine free and this makes it a great, healthy alternative to Ceylon tea and coffee. More affordable, too.

2. SWEET POTATOES

Sweet potatoes in a syrupy sauce: Delicious side dish. Image: Adobe

Leave regular, starchy potatoes behind. The healthy alternative is high in vitamin A and C, fibre, as well as potassium. They’re inexpensive and can bulk up any meal thanks to their sweet flavor. Even the best ways to cook them are healthy – roasting or steaming. Better still, you might even look into growing them at home as part of home a veggie garden.

3. OATS

Oats with fig compote. Image: Msi Muzi Mathebula

Once again, oats are a great source of fibre that will fill you up for less. Mostly consumed as a healthy breakfast option, you’ll fulfill your body’s need for vitamins and minerals like iron and zinc. You should note that there are plenty of sugared oats on sale. The healthiest and cheapest is the traditional, unflavoured option.

4. CANNED BEANS

It’s an urban myth that gas comes from eating beans. Image: Canva

Like ‘em or loathe ‘em, South Africa was built on canned beans. They are a cheap, convenient and relatively healthy choice to bring protein and fibre to your meals. It’s a great protein replacement when cutting down on meat for health or financial reasons.

5. FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

The right way to take in sugar is through fruits. Image: Canva

When you’re talking healthy foods in South Africa, you cannot pass up fruits and vegetables. Granted, they aren’t the cheapest, and they can go off if not consumed in time, but a diet of fruits and vegetables is the key to a healthy life. Moreover, fruit is a healthy alternative to sugary snacks and drinks.

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What do you think of the healthy foods in South Africa? Can you afford them? Be sure to share your thoughts with our audience in the comments section below. And don’t forget to follow us @TheSANews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest updates.

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