by: Jessica Thiefels | Contributor to Clark.comUpdated: Aug 21, 2017 - 11:19 AM

Living a healthy life is not cheap. If youre paying for things like supplements, gym membership fees and organic groceries on a consistent basis, yourcash is very likely slipping through your fingers before you can even count it.

Making your healthy life more affordable may not be easy, but once the necessary habits are adopted, it will become second nature to you!

Use these tips to save money, stay fit, and feel good about your physical and financial health.

Gyms can be expensive, but there are ways to get more and spend less if you know what to look for.

Read more: How to get a gym membership for really cheap

On the other hand, you can skip the gym altogether and use the Internet as your personal trainer. There are a number of websites that offer high-quality workout videos from top-tier trainers, for free or cheap. Here are a few to check out:

Not all grocery stores are created equal. While you might love the one thats closest to you because its convenient, it may not be the best option for saving every week. A recent pricing analysis found that Aldi offered the most in average monthly savings (34.5%). Trader Joes, known for its deals and discounts, came in last, with 0% average monthly savings. Get more shopping insights from the full CouponBox grocery analysis here.

If you dont have an Aldi near you, do your own pricing test. Each week for the next month, buythe same groceries at four different stores shopping at a different one each week. Save your receipts and compare. Where did you spend the least? Maybe one store has a bulk section, great for stocking up on pantry items, while another is better for produce and fresh protein. Then modify your shopping routine accordingly!

Read more: 15 ways to save on groceries without digging for coupons

If you love your supplements, youre not alone. The supplements industry is currently worth $37 billion, so there is clearly no shortage of supplements available.

And with a little research, you canfind what you need at a price you love. Before paying out of pocket, see if your doctor can write you a prescription. If you can buy it from the pharmacy, you may be able to use your insurance, which could save a few dollars, depending on what you need.

Otherwise, Vitacost and Supplement Warehouse offer steep discounts on a variety of brands and types, and My Supplement Store is almost always offering free shipping for purchases over $50.

Note:Its important to make sure you do your research and even ask your doctor aboutany supplements you decide you take, as they could include ingredients that conflict with other medications youre currently taking.

Read more: Avoid supplements with these ingredients

This may sound boring and typical, but planning your meals helps you buy just what you need, rather than spending on food that will end up in the trash. For example, you could plan on doing rice, veggies and protein for dinner for the next week. There are many ways you can change this up from day to day, while relying on a few affordable basics:

Planning your meals in this way allows you to get the most for your money, without spending on food you dont need.

Read more: 9 perks that make a Costco membership totally worth it

Government food assistance, often called food stamps or SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), is offered for a reason: sometimes we need a little help, and theres no shame in that. Many college students, for example, can qualify and get $60 $100+ in food money every month.

When I was in college, this was a lifesaver. I was able to get the healthy food I wanted, and now, with a well-paying job, I can afford it myself. The best part: Most who qualify receive a debit card, so when you check out at the cash register, no one has to know its not your regular bank card.

Living a healthy life can be affordable if you plan a little, look for the deals, and know where to shop. Youll be glad you took the time to do a pricing test and find the best online workout subscription when you see that youre saving every month.

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