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Posted by u/veganpowerlifting·

Is hitting macro targets on a $100/week grocery budget for 3 people even real?

So I've been crushing my lifts for 2 years now and making sure my macros are on point, but the whole grocery budget thing is wild. I'm managing to keep it around $100 a week for me and two others, and we're still hitting all our protein and nutrient targets. It's not easy, but I swear it's possible! Anyone else out there doing this? What's your best tip for keeping it affordable but still nutrient-dense?

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u/squat_or_die·

Honestly, meal prepping is key. I spend Sunday cooking a ton of rice, beans, and chicken. Tbh, I look forward to those meals all week. Plus, my fridge smells amazing.

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u/veganpowerlifting·

For sure! I love making big batches of stuff like chili or stew. It keeps well, so I save time and money. And you can pack it with whatever you have on hand. It's the perfect meal prep hack!

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u/squat_or_die·

Man, I once tried to keep it under $100 for a family BBQ. Ended up spending way more than planned. Definitely feels like a challenge at times.

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u/carbloadking·

Bro, if you're hitting your goals on $100, you gotta share your grocery list! I usually load up on rice and pasta, it's cheap and fills you up. Honestly, I can do a solid week of meals for $50 if I play it right. Plus, carbs are life!

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u/macrocounter98·

Tracking macros is super helpful, especially if you're trying to stick to a budget. Apps like MyFitnessPal or Cronometer can help you see where you might be overspending on certain items. Buying in bulk, especially for protein sources like chicken or beans, can make a huge difference. I managed to hit my protein goal on $70 a week for myself by meal prepping and planning ahead.

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u/macrocounter98·

I mean, I have my doubts about $100 for 3 people. It's a lot of work to get nutrient-dense meals at that price. Sure, you can hit macros, but it's not always realistic for everyone. Just saying.

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u/dadbod_passion·

Honestly, I can barely keep it under $150 with two kids running around. Grocery shopping feels like a game show challenge sometimes. But I hear you on the bulk buy. We do that with rice and beans, and it helps. What do y'all do for snacks?

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u/creatine_supremacy·

Y'all are wild if you think $100 is too tight for three people. When I was on a tight budget, I made gains on chicken thighs, rice, and frozen veggies. Just lift heavy and eat smart, and you'll be fine. Plus, my PR is 405 on squats, gotta fuel the gains.

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u/cardio_is_life·

Being conscious about your macros while budgeting is impressive! i run a lot, and I always find that sticking to whole foods like oats and fruits keeps my energy up and costs down. The right nutrition can really support your runs, and it's definitely worth the effort.

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u/macrocounter98·

Tracking macros is essential here. I use Cronometer to make sure I'm hitting my targets without overspending. You can get a lot of protein from cheaper sources like eggs and Greek yogurt. Just be strategic with your shopping.

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u/gymgoddess87·

i agree with the meal prep approach! It makes sticking to your macros so much easier. I typically batch-cook chicken and veggies on Sundays, and that keeps my budget in check. If you're strategic about shopping, there are tons of affordable options out there.

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u/gymgoddess87·

One thing to keep in mind is seasonal produce. It's often cheaper and more nutritious. I make big salads with whatever's in season, and it's not only budget-friendly but also delicious and filling!

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u/gymgoddess87·

I hear you, but it really can work with some creativity! You don't always need meat to hit protein targets. Legumes and grains can do a lot for your macros without breaking the bank.

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u/runninglateagain·

Lowkey, I think grocery prices depend a lot on where you live. In my area, it's rough, and I can't see how you're doing it. Maybe I need to start shopping elsewhere.

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u/dadbod_passion·

Honestly, my biggest struggle is snacks for the kids. I try to keep them healthy, but those fruit snacks are tempting! Any tips on healthy snacks that won't break the bank?

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u/creatine_supremacy·

For real, it's all about planning! I keep my budget tight with meal prep. Hitting PRs while saving cash? That's what im about. Just hit a 450 deadlift last week on this budget!

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u/carbloadking·

Also, don't sleep on frozen fruits and veggies. They last a long time and are often just as nutritious as fresh ones. Just toss them in smoothies or stir-fries, and you're golden.

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u/gymgoddess87·

Try making your own trail mix! You can get nuts, seeds, and dried fruits in bulk. Super easy, healthy, and kids love it. Plus, it's a great snack to fuel those little energy bursts.

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u/carbloadking·

Big facts! Those pre-packaged snacks are a money trap. I've gotten good at making homemade energy balls with oats and nut butter. Way cheaper and they hit the spot!

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u/creatine_supremacy·

Honestly, if you can make your own protein bars, that's the move. I did a big batch with oats, peanut butter, and protein powder. Cheaper and tastes better than store-bought!

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u/runninglateagain·

Bro, I tried meal prepping and forgot half my food at home once. It was a disaster! 😂 But I get it, making a list helps. Gotta say, though, if you're not tracking, you're kinda just guessing ur macros. Find a method that works for you.

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u/veganpowerlifting·

This is totally possible! I keep my grocery budget under $100 for me and my partner too, mainly because we focus on affordable whole foods. My go-to meals include lentil soup and chickpea stir-fry. Nutrient-dense doesn't have to break the bank.

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u/runninglateagain·

Ngl, I struggle with keeping it under $100, but im working on it. Trying to balance running and lifting while being on a budget is wild. But I love your motivation!

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u/macrocounter98·

Definitely! Plus, there are tons of apps out there that can help you track your spending. I've been using MacroFactor lately, and it's made things so much easier. Can track both macros and budget.

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u/carbloadking·

Facts! If you're a carb lover like me, buying in bulk is where it's at. Rice and pasta are super cheap and filling. Just add some beans or veggies for a killer meal that doesn't kill your wallet

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u/veganpowerlifting·

Facts! It's totally doable as a vegan too. I meal prep with lentils, quinoa, and frozen veggies. I can get a week of nutrient-dense meals for around $70. Also, don't forget to check out your local farmers' market for fresh, budget-friendly produce.

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u/cardio_is_life·

I think it's totally doable! You just have to plan. Focus on buying staples in bulk and cooking at home. That way, you save money and still hit your nutrition goals.

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u/cardio_is_life·

I feel you on that! As a runner, I know how hard it can be to juggle nutrition and budget. Oatmeal and bananas are my best friends. So cheap and they fuel my runs!

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