The NJSBA's Member Assistance Program is a free confidential service that offers 24/7 phone, text or mobile access to a mental health professional with at least seven years of experience, who will provide individual counseling and connect members with a wellness library of more than 25,000 self-help resources. The program is available to all NJSBA members and those in their households. Get help today by calling 800-531-0200. The following article is from a newsletter by Charles Nechtem Associates, the program’s provider.
You shouldn’t have to choose between your bank account and your health. However, for many Americans, eating well feels increasingly out of reach as grocery prices climb and budgets tighten.
A recent survey of more than 2,000 people confirms this reality: 59% of respondents said cost is a major barrier to adopting healthier habits.
While some factors—like rising food prices—are beyond your control, understanding the common challenges to healthy eating is an important first step. From there, you can adopt smart, realistic strategies to nourish yourself and your family without overspending.
The Problem: Living in a Food Desert
If you live far from a full-service grocery store or lack reliable transportation, finding affordable, nutritious food can be difficult.
What you can do:
-If possible, shop at farmers markets, which often offer seasonal produce at lower prices—and many accept SNAP benefits.
-Look for healthier options at small neighborhood stores or bodegas, such as fresh produce, eggs, beans, or whole grains.
-When fresh food isn’t available, choose frozen or canned fruits and vegetables. They’re nutritious, budget-friendly, and last longer.
-Read labels carefully and avoid items packed in syrup, butter, or cream sauces, which add unnecessary sugar and sodium.
The Problem: Targeted Marketing of Unhealthy Foods
Research shows that advertising for fast food and ultra-processed snacks is disproportionately aimed at low-income communities and people of color.
What you can do:
-Limit TV and screen time during meals to reduce exposure to food advertising.
-Talk with children about how ads are designed to influence choices—this builds awareness and healthier decision-making.
-Focus family meals around simple, whole foods and make them enjoyable, so convenience foods become less tempting.
The Problem: Food Insecurity
Food insecurity—difficulty affording or accessing safe, nutritious food—affects millions of households and can make healthy eating feel overwhelming.
What you can do:
-Check your eligibility for assistance programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), WIC, or local food pantries.
-Plan meals ahead of time and shop with a list to avoid impulse purchases.
-Choose nutrient-dense, low-cost staples like lentils, beans, rice, eggs, peanut butter, oats, bananas, apples, leafy greens, and canned tuna or salmon.
-Buy pantry staples like grains and beans in bulk when possible.
-Opt for store-brand products, which often cost 20%–30% less than name brands with little difference in quality.
A Final Thought
Healthy eating doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Small, consistent changes—like swapping one processed meal for a home-cooked one or choosing frozen vegetables over fresh—can add up over time. By being strategic, informed, and flexible, you can support your health and your budget at the same time.
This Month's Webinar - Eat Your Way to Better Health
The food we eat has a bigger impact on our health than almost any other factor. Yet in today's environment of minimal time and super-sized portions, and with conflicting reports about what is and is not healthy, many of us struggle to get the nutrients we need to thrive. During this interactive session, we'll take the guesswork out of healthy eating and provide simple, sustainable strategies that can be incorporated into even the busiest lifestyles. Whatever your health-related goals might be, this session will empower you with resources and information to help you lead the longest and healthiest life possible.
Log-in any time this month to watch the webinar!