Is it possible to eat healthy on low income?

I've been faced with these kinds of decisions over the past few years. I strive for a low carb menu for our health but it's not always possible to stay within a strict low carb plan because of budget restrictions. So, I do my best within the financial boundaries that the Lord has placed on me.

I had an interesting choice to make at the grocery store yesterday.  With $10 left in my grocery budget I was left with the decision whether to purchase butter at $2.50 or margarine for $.89. I know..I know..  it seems like a silly thing to write about but I'm learning that these kind of decision sometimes make the difference as to whether I can stay within my monthly allotment for groceries. 

There was a time when my children were growing up that I never purchased butter.  I just didn't feel that I could afford it. There was also not as much information about the health benefits of butter vs. margarine. But, for the past 8 plus years, I have purchased butter. Thankfully, we had the income to support the decision.

I could have bought the butter (and went without something else) but I was hesitant to use a 1/4 of what I had left not knowing what needs may come up in the coming days before our next paycheck. So.. I purchased the margarine.

I also had this decision to make when purchasing meat towards the end of this month. I normally don't purchase a lot of pork and try to focus more on chicken and smaller amounts of  beef. But, the pork meat was nearly $1 less a pound than the other types so that is what I bought to stretch my money. 

I do believe that what we eat can have a lot to do with our health but I also know so many older people who have broken many of the 'rules' for healthy eating (which change each generation) and have lived a long healthy life. They lady I care for has eaten margarine all her life. I've often teased her and said, 'you better stop eating that margarine or you won't live to be 92 years old'. We both laugh.

 Everyone will have to make these choices for themselves. My conscience does not condemn me on eating margarine so I'm free to indulge when our money is tight. 

 I do the best I can to purchase healthy foods on our low income but I don't stress if I can't hold to it perfectly. I'm thankful to have food to put on my table. There are so many in foreign countries and our own United States that are hungry and would be thankful for even one stick of margarine. 

So, we ask the Lord to bless our food and thank Him for His provision!


The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food in due season. Psalm 145:15

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 1 Cor. 10:31