Choosing what we eat starts long before the first bite. The decision is made when we:

• Push a shopping cart around the grocery store
• Read the menu at a restaurant
• Browse the next recipe to try on Pinterest
• Choose a meal delivery service
• Add to the virtual cart for grocery pickup later
• Plan what to bring to a potluck

Each of these moments will likely result in payment: an exchange of money for food or ingredients.

Paying for unhealthy food is a lose-lose situation – on longevity and wallet.

Instead, lean towards spending money on vegetables (and seafood). Whether we are eating out at restaurants or buying groceries, spend money consciously towards what will help you thrive, not what marketing tells you looks good. Fancier meat or desserts can be occasional treats, but it’s cheaper AND healthier to avoid them on a day-to-day basis. On the other hand, watch out for processed food or carbs, which can be cheaper but are less healthy for the body. Aim towards saving money AND health, not just money.