One thing Rich always advocated was, “real food first”. Even though he founded 5% Nutrition, he still believed real food was more important than supplements. Yet that’s why 5% Nutrition uses only actual food sources for our protein and carb powders. Rich also believed in eating at least 6-8 meals a day. That can be expensive! In this article, we’ll tell you how to approach bodybuilding Nutrition On A Budget. Let’s go shopping!
What Appliances Do I Need?
You can use virtually any appliance to cook your meals. This might mean a microwave, hot plate, countertop grille, crock pot, or conventional oven. At the least, a microwave works for pretty much any meal or cooking requirement.
Rich’s “Flat Broke” Diet
We should mention that, at one time, Rich depended on Chef Boyardee Ravioli and eggs. That was his “Flat Broke” diet. Sometimes he’d add oats. Regardless, he’d eat this unique combination for every meal. Even Rich himself said this was not the best way to eat. But hey, if you’re flat broke, you have to do whatever it takes, and that’s exactly what Rich did.
Budget Sources Of Protein
Warehouse Stores - Or Your Usual Grocery Store?
For some people, a warehouse store is the way to go because you can buy in bulk. Plus, you have unlimited options, from frozen meats and fish to Greek yogurt and eggs. Of course, there’s also canned tuna and canned chicken.
However, nowadays you can buy bulk products at your local grocery store. They’ve had no choice but to offer these products so they can compete with the bulk warehouse chains.
Dollar Stores
A somewhat new entry into the budget food market is the dollar store. If you can find one with a frozen and refrigerated foods section, you can get frozen meats and yogurt. Not to mention, you can find various canned goods, like tuna and chicken. Some of the package sizes may be a little smaller, but this is about as inexpensive as it gets.
Budget Sources Of Carbs
Carbohydrates are a little easier to fit into your budget, no matter how tight it might be. Oats, rice, and potatoes are all inexpensive options. Add to that the fact you can buy in bulk, and you will save even more money.
Meal Prep
In many cases, you can prepare your meals as you need them. For example, a can of tuna or chicken. There are several easy ways you can eat these. That includes simply opening, seasoning, and digging in, to mixing up some tuna or chicken salad. Add a carb source, and you’ve got a great-tasting, inexpensive meal.
In other cases, you can cook up things like rice or frozen meats, portion them into containers, freeze them, and heat them as needed.
Don’t Forget 5% Nutrition!
Of course, even on a budget, you’re using 5% Nutrition supplements. Stay the course and follow Rich’s lead by drinking a Real Carbs and Shake Time shake in the morning and immediately post-workout. You can use this exceptional combination to replace 1-2 meals. Don’t forget the 5% pre-workout of your choice, and All Day You May for your intra-workout.
Recap
As you can see, the concept of bodybuilding nutrition on a budget is not hard. That includes eating the way Rich suggested. It just takes a little preparation and planning. You just have to know where to shop, and what to buy. As long as you have a cooking appliance, such as a microwave, you can make virtually anything. Top it off by following Rich’s suggestions for 5% supplementation, and you’ve got it made!
