Healthy diet 'need not cost the earth'
Parents who want their children to lose weight do not have to spend more on food, according to new research by UK scientists.Many people argue that price acts as a barrier to healthy eating, as many healthier products tend to be more expensive than popular junk food items.
However, scientists found that by altering shopping habits and selecting healthier items, it may actually be possible for families to save money.
Researchers at the University of Bristol analysed the food diaries of obese children and found that they typically consumed 221 calories more, per day, than the estimated average requirements.
They then asked qualified dieticians to convert their meals into 'healthier option' menus, using the guidelines provided by the 'Eatwell plate'.
They found that shoppers who purchased these healthier diet plans at a mid-range supermarket were able to reduce the number of calories and save money.
In the most expensive shops, healthier eating cost no more than £2.31 per week; however by shopping in the least expensive outlets, parents could save £6.58 by purchasing healthier food options.
Lead researcher Dr Julian Hamilton-Shield, whose findings are published in the British Journal of General Practice, said: "Food cost is frequently cited as a reason for failure to address eating behaviours in clinical practice, and this study demonstrates that for many this is a perceived rather than real barrier."
The Eatwell plate is a diagram showing people the proportions of different types of food that they should aim to eat in achieve a healthy and balanced diet.
