Like many others, I started this year with a goal to improve my eating habits and enhance my overall wellbeing. While my previous diet wasn’t terrible, I knew it had room for improvement.
The internet is full of advice on what to eat, but the general consensus favors whole, minimally processed foods for both physical and mental health. In 2026, I’ve made a conscious effort to incorporate more of these into my diet—and surprisingly, it’s been easier than expected.
Planning meals ahead each week has been key to staying on track. My aim is to reduce ultra-processed food intake, but variety is essential to avoid getting bored. Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) usually contain additives and ingredients not typically found in a home kitchen. Not all UPFs are unhealthy—for example, some wholegrain cereals and seeded breads—but it’s wise to check labels and opt for products with simple, wholesome ingredients.
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This approach has truly improved how I feel.
Fortunately, eating well doesn’t have to be expensive. Most of my groceries come from Aldi, and there are five items I buy weekly that help me maintain a healthy, varied diet.
First up is a quality sourdough loaf. While I’ve long been a fan of Jason’s bread, Aldi’s own sourdough offerings have recently impressed me. Their ciabattin loaf is a personal favorite—more compact and tangier than standard sourdough—and Aldi’s version is just as good, priced at only £1.59. With a simple ingredient list and excellent freezer life, it’s perfect for toast or sandwiches.
For a sweet treat that fits my health goals, I always buy Aldi’s 85% dark chocolate. Each piece is individually wrapped, perfect for portion control. Dark chocolate is rich in polyphenols, which may help reduce stress and support immunity. At £2.49, it’s great value, and I enjoy it with tea or in healthy baking.
Next: nut butter. Despite being calorie-dense, nut butters supply healthy fats. I prefer peanut butter, but only varieties made purely from peanuts without added sugar or additives. Aldi offers a tasty option in both smooth and crunchy forms at just £1.59. I enjoy it as a snack with apple slices, stirred into sauces, or mixed into overnight oats.
Chia seeds are another staple, packed with fiber and omega-3 fatty acids that support digestion and overall health. Chia pudding is easy to prepare with Greek yogurt and milk and can be topped with a variety of flavors like raspberry ripple, mango, or cinnamon apples. The seeds are both nutritious and satisfying, costing about £1.69 per pack.
Finally, tofu consistently makes my weekly list. This minimally processed soy-based protein provides all essential amino acids, making it ideal for muscle recovery, especially for those avoiding animal products. Some find tofu bland, but seasoning and cooking techniques can transform it. I like coating tofu in cornflour and sesame oil, then air frying it for 15 minutes before adding it to rice, noodles, curries, or stews. At just 95p a block, it’s a highly versatile and affordable option.
Eating healthily doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or breaking the bank. These five Aldi essentials help me avoid ultra-processed foods while keeping my meals fresh, varied, and nutritious.