The thought of trying to lose weight can seem overwhelming, especially when you're so used to your current habits.
When it comes to dieting, there is not shortage of plans that all claim to quickly slim waists. There is also an idea that only those of with a certain income can afford the fresh produce that many of these require.
Luckily, diet guru Michael Mosley has explained how you can do one popular diet on a budget on his official Fast800 diet website. Known for promoting sustainable forms of weight loss, he is a big supporter of the Mediterranean diet, which focuses on foods based on the traditions of countries like Greece and Italy.
While it's not new, the health expert has said that has been proven to help weight loss and is the "best way you can fuel your body". It promotes a diet full of plant based foods like whole grains, fresh vegetables and fruits, legumes, healthy fats like olive oil and nuts.
However, a trip to the supermarket may reveal a lot of these foods can come with higher costs, and Mr Mosely has explained how these items can become unafforadble. He said: "Often the problem with ‘health foods’ is that they have claims on the packaging that boost the price tag and make them very costly.
"We take a no-nonsense approach to healthy eating that won’t cost a fortune."
Anyone can change to live a healthier lifestyle and it doesn't have to cost you. All it takes is some preparation, knowing what to look for and picking up some easy new habits.
"Your budget should never be a barrier to good health," the health journalist added. "By pre-preparing, knowing where to shop and how to store your foods, anyone can follow a Mediterranean-style diet on a budget."
Read below to find out how to follow a Mediterranean style diet without breaking the bank.
Six tips to follow a Mediterranean style diet on a budget
1. Try wonky veg
You don't have to buy the most pristine produce to stick to a Mediterranean-style diet.
Instead, look out for the "wonky veg" option on your next supermarket outing. Most retailers will offer some sort of deals on fruits and vegetables that are still edible but less visually appealing.
Not only is this good for your wallet, it also benefits the planet by reducing food waste. Sainsbury's is currently offering fruit and veg boxes for £2. Similarly, Aldi has launched a Magic Bag option which gives discounted surplus foods to shoppers and this includes fresh produce.
2. Plan ahead
Before hitting the supermarket, take a few minutes to sit down and make a shopping list.
Not only can it help your remember what you actually need, having a set guideline will help you avoid impulse purchases. Many of these spontaneous buys can be bad for your health and wallet.
You can also try to organise what meals to make throughout the week, so no food goes to waste.
3. Reduce your waste
Of course, most of us won't be able to use all their fruits and vegetables before they go off, no matter how much we try.
If you find extra food that's about to turn but don't want to throw it away, many ingredients can be stored in the freezer for further use. There are also lots of recipes like curries and smoothies that are a great way to reduce food waste while sticking to a Mediterranean diet.
Head chef Anna Williams how to safely freeze ten common foods in the freezer to extend their shelf life.
4. Go frozen
Many fruits and vegetables come pre-frozen and can be bought for cheaper than their fresh counterparts.
The same applies to meats and fish, with the frozen options usually coming in larger quantities and therefore are better value.
5. Buy seasonally
Buying produce that is in season will help you save cash and result in better tasting fruit and vegetables.
At their peak-freshness, seasonal vegetables cost less, and buying locally grown will save on import costs while supporting your local communities.
6. Grow your own
Growing your own produce is actually easier than most people think.
There are certain fruits and vegetables that can grow fairly easily in different climates. This can be done in a veggie patch in a garden, or a grow box on a balcony.
Produce that can be grown at home includes onions, garlic, potatoes, strawberries, tomatoes, chillies and peppers. Even easier, many herbs that are a staple of the Mediterranean diet can be grown on a kitchen windowsill, all you need is a pack of seeds.
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