Many of us use the start of a new year to kickstart that healthy diet we have been putting-off. However, the price of nutritious food can be a barrier for some.

Eating healthily is a big part of maintaining a healthier lifestyle, but our research shows that those on a stretched budget can struggle to afford foods associated with a good diet. However, there are some everyday staples that are just as healthy as some of the so called ‘superfoods’. BBC Good Food have put together a list of 9 of the most versatile ingredients that can be used in many dishes while providing a budget-friendly option.

Try these healthy foods:

• Canned tuna – An affordable protein source, tuna is low in fat and is tasty whether you are looking a pasta bake, sandwich or salad.
• Frozen peas – A great component of a variety of meals including soups and stews, with an added bonus of being rich in fibre and a good source of iron.
• Eggs – One of the most versatile foods out there! Eggs are rich in protein and can be enjoyed on their own, or as ingredients for both sweet and savory meals.
• Oats – As well as filling you up, oats are packed with important vitamins and minerals which is great for balancing cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
• Apples – Great on their own or added to cereals and desserts. They will help improve your gut and brain health too.
• Carrots – Depending on your tastes, some enjoy carrots as a side or in a soup or salad, while others eat it raw as a snack. They are great for your eyesight and immune system.
• Cauliflower – This fashionable vegetable has stayed low in price and contains nutrients that help your heart and brain function, and works especially well in a curry or soup.
• Plain yoghurt – This gut-friendly food can be a great option as it’s easy to mix and match with different kinds of fruit to keep it interesting!
• Tinned beans – A great food for bulking out meals like curries or chillis while also keeping the cost down. Beans are a good plant-based source of protein and fibre.

If you would like to know the health benefits of eating these foods or need inspiration about how they could fit into various dishes, check out the advice from Good Food. Incorporating these foods into your weekly diet will help turn your optimistic New Year’s resolutions into healthy habits for the future!