The recession may be bad for your heart - that’s the warning from local heart charity Croí. It says because of the economic downturn people may opt for unhealthy processed foods which are often perceived as cheaper to buy.
However, this may be a false economy because they increase our intake of empty calories, sugar, saturated fat and salt, all of which are bad for heart health.
The charity, which recently launched a new cardiovascular disease prevention programme which promotes intensive lifestyle change for those most at risk of heart attack, diabetes and stroke, says recent research on food buying behaviour has revealed some interesting facts.
“Staying in is now the new going out” says Croí dietician Claire Kerins. “It is understandable that people are now far more conscious of what they spend on food due to changing economic circumstances. However, some trends are a cause for concern.”
She quotes a recent UK retail study which reveals that sales of comfort food (snacks, chocolates, etc, ) has significantly increased, people are buying more cheaper cuts of meat, particularly processed meats, and expensive imported tropical fruit is decreasing in popularity. Home baking is catching on in a big way but with it comes the potential to increase sugar, fat and calorie intakes.
“When you are on a tight budget shopping for food can be a daunting experience,” states Ms Kerins. “However, reducing your food bill does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice good nutrition. With careful meal planning, shopping and cooking you can trim both your waistline and your food budget! The old cliché of ‘We are what we eat’ is very true. So, the challenge is to ensure that any cost saving measures taken with our shopping do not result in higher health costs later on.”
Croi offers the following recession busting tips:-
Plan ahead
Make a shopping list to avoid impulse buying.
Compare prices
Shop around and compare prices. Store brands are almost always cheaper. The brand name does not always make it more or less nutritious
Be Wise
Special offers will only help you save money if the item is on your list.
Avoid convenience foods
Generally these may be cheaper but not always the healthiest.
Choose frozen
Frozen produce can be just as nutritious as fresh produce, sometimes even better. It is usually less expensive and less likely to spoil.
Eat in season
Take advantage of the cheaper price of foods in season. Out of season foods are usually more expensive.
Buy meat in bulk
Large packages of meat, chicken and fish tend to cost less than small packages. Cook what you need and freeze the remainder.
The key message from Croi is that despite the recession always make healthy food choices.
“Try to eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables every day. Increase your intake of high fibre foods, such as wholegrain cereals and grains. Reduce your intake of foods that are high in saturated fat and choose low fat dairy products. Remember, at all times try to reduce your salt intake.”
To find out more about heart health contact the Croí heart health centre at (091 ) 893500 or log onto www.croi.ie
