To eat healthy and loose weight does not mean we have to spend a fortune on special foods.  If we understand the principles behind weight loss it is easy to see why.

Food provides energy to the body.  When the energy input (food eaten) is less than the energy output (exercise and body function) it will result in weight loss.  When it is the other way around it will lead to weight gain.  So to loose weight you need to use more energy than what you put into your body.

Being as active as possible is the easiest way to use up more energy.  When doing cardiovascular exercises your body burns more energy and you tend to loose fat faster.  You do not have to spend money on a gym contract, but can incorporate exercise in your daily activities.
Take the stairs instead of using the lift.
Walk wherever you can instead of using a car.
Take a fast 20 minute walk around your neighbourhood every day.
If you have a skipping rope, skip for 10 minutes every day.
If you have a bicycle, ride for 20 minutes every day.
If you have a swimming pool, swim as many lengths as you can every day.

When it comes to putting less energy into the body it is necessary to understand the following.  All food provides energy, but not all foods provide equal amounts of energy per gram.  1 gram of fat provides 38 kJ, whereas 1g of carbohydrates or 1g of protein provides only 17kJ.  Fat provides double the amount of kilojoules than carbohydrates (starch) and protein and therefore should be restricted when you want to loose weight.  By eating low fat foods you will be able to take in less energy from foods and in that way lower you energy intake. 

“Fast foods” are usually high in fat, concentrated in energy and expensive.  Buying low fat foods and not Junk foods will save you money, but it will take some planning and effort from your side.

List of healthy foods to use in your diet:
Breakfast
Oats, bran flakes
Plain low fat yoghurt
Low fat milk
Lunch
Low GI bread, Provitas
Peanut butter, boiled egg
Dinner
Tuna, lean mince, chicken, baked beans and other legumes
Sweet potato, brown rice, pasta, baby potatoes

Fresh vegetables and fruit in season should be less expensive.
Depending on storage space, food can be prepared in bulk and frozen.