Most people think that eating healthy involves spending your entire paycheck when going grocery shopping, but in the short two weeks that I have been vegan, I have learned that saving money is actually quite easy!

Of course when I first decided to become a vegan, I spent a hefty amount of money at Sprouts because I needed to completely start over and purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy free items, vegan snacks, meat substitutes, seasonings, and sauces.

I plan to only eat raw fruits and vegetables in the future; however, since I am still transitioning, it is essential that I have an abundant amount of options because I still crave meat and dairy.

Never fear new vegans, or vegetarians, for I have composed a list of tips to help you eat healthy while not blowing a hole in your pocket!

1. Learn to say “no” to eating out.

Everyone loves going out to eat with friends and family. It is one of the best pastimes known to humans and best believe I used to spend all of my money at restaurants. The food in my kitchen would be forgotten, spoil, and I would sadly realize how much money I wasted. As a new vegan, I've learned the importance of truly eating what I have in the kitchen. I've learned to say the word "no" when my friends ask me to go out to eat because I have already cooked a meal for the next few days and don't feel like wasting money. Of course I still enjoy going out to eat and want to visit vegan restaurants, but I've learned to limit myself. Learn to put your foot down and start whipping it up in the kitchen!

2. But remember, it's okay to eat out sometimes.

I can't preach not going out to eat and not realizing that I am still human! Yesterday, I went to Taco Bell and got a crunch-wrap with only beans, guacamole, pico de gallo, and salsa. It wasn't the healthiest option, but I was traveling to Columbia and was very hungry. It only cost me about $2. Also, I absolutely love Panera Bread so I decided to try the new Vegan Lentil Bowl which I splurged on for $9. I realized that I can make the Lentil Bowl myself! I also wanted to try the new hotdog place in town, Dog Haus, which has a veggie smoked apple sausage option that was so delicious. If you need to stop at a restaurant, remember that there are places that have inexpensive vegan food options, which may contain added preservatives, but are far healthier than the other options! Again, learn to limit how many times you eat out!

3. You don't have to limit yourself to only Sprouts or Whole Foods.

It goes without saying that Sprouts, Whole Foods, or even Trader Joe's have the best options for organic foods, rather it's fresh fruits or vegetables, canned items, or even frozen foods. I spent $200 when I went vegan cold turkey and visited Sprouts. NEVER AGAIN. Last week I needed a few items for a meal that I was making and visited Aldi. I only spent about $30! Kroger and Walmart have organic sections also, which are a little more expensive than the other items, but are definitely not as much as Sprouts, Whole Foods, or Trader Joe's. Try to buy healthy snacks and frozen foods in bulk from Sam's Club and visit your local farmer's market to not only save money, but to also have fresher options and give back to your local farmers!

4. Try not to buy pre-packaged meals.

I am still trying to transition to only buying raw fruits and vegetables so I still buy a few pre-packaged items. Yes, there are frozen dinners for vegans. These items are made to be prepared easily and quickly, but they're also more expensive. It make take more time to prepare a veggie burger from scratch or cut up a sweet potato for some amazing sweet potato fries, but trust me, your bank account will thank you. Also, pre-packaged foods may contain preservatives that nobody wants in their diet. As I said, try to buy items in bulk that you can freeze or buy items that are non perishable, like beans, nuts, and grains.

5. Meal prep for at least three days.

I have never been much of a chef. I guess this is why I enjoyed eating out so much, having food delivered to me, or having pre-packaged items in the kitchen. I have been cooking so many different meals since I have decided to become a vegan than I think I ever have in my entire life! I never enjoyed cooking because it took up so much time and I wanted something quick and fast, but it's actually really fun creating new meals! There are so many options and so many sites which offer new and exciting recipes. Remember: PINTEREST IS YOUR BEST FRIEND. Pack your meals to bring with you on campus. Usually campus markets have microwaves.

Also, I discovered that you can really make a delicious meal with the different spices and sauces that you use. So experiment! Nutritional yeast tastes almost exactly like cheese and jackfruit is a vegan holy grail. Jackfruit has a meat-like texture when it's shredded and takes the flavor of any seasonings and spices! Learn to try different things and make enough to last you for at least three days. You may be able to meal prep for up to a week, but personally, I get bored with food after about three days!

6. Have healthy snacks available at all times.

We get hungry throughout the day. Hence the word: snack. Like meal prepping, you want to make sure that you have vegan snacks available at easy and convenient access. There are small markets around my college campus and when I needed a snack in-between classes, I usually spent more money than needed on a pop-tart, lunchable, chips and/or drink. As a vegan, I have started to bring fruit, rice cakes, nuts, and my personal favorite snack: homemade hummus and gluten-free tortilla chips. Yum. Don't forget to bring a refillable water bottle with you, too!

7. Join groups on Facebook.

When I decided to become vegan, I contacted one of my friends who is also a vegan. She instantly added me to about 30 groups on Facebook! One is actually called, "What Broke Vegans Eat," and it's refreshing to know that I am not alone while trying to eat healthy and keep money in the bank. Not only that, but the support from these groups is outstanding. People post pictures of different recipes they've tried, informative articles, and questions that you may or may not have thought of!

8. Start your own garden.

Growing your own garden is not only cheap, but also healthier! You will know exactly what is being put into your body when you grow your own fruits and vegetables. My roommate actually started growing some vegetables on the balcony of our apartment. Make sure to water your plants only once a day because too much water can actually hurt your plants. This is easier said than done because it does take time and consistency to have a healthy garden; however, it is definitely another option to saving money!

Eating healthy does not have to be expensive. It takes budgeting, planning, and an open mind to endless food possibilities! Remember that it is okay to stop at a dine-in or fast food restaurant, but learn to LIMIT yourself and enjoy cooking! I still want to visit vegan restaurants because I plan to travel and explore after college, but for now, I will try to budget and save as much as possible.

Good luck on your healthy journey!