10 tips for following the Mediterranean diet on a budget

• The Mediterranean diet was ranked number one on US News' 41 best diets overall list. 
• Although the eating plan can be costly, keeping a look out for sales and buying in bulk can bring the cost down. 
• Opt for frozen vegetables and canned fish to lower costs even more. 

Chances are you've heard a lot of about the Mediterranean diet this year, as this eating plan recently nabbed the top spot on the US News and World Report's annual ranking. And although many foods on the Mediterranean diet can be costly, according to registered dietitian Elana Natker, MS, it's entirely possible to follow the diet while on a budget. 

The Mediterranean diet, she explained, is fairly simple, and calls for eating an abundance of fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, and nuts. In addition, she noted that the diet also emphasizes fish as a protein source, which is an excellent way to obtain heart-healthy omega-3s.

INSIDER asked registered dietitians to provide some helpful money-saving tips on how to observe this eating plan on a tight budget. 

SEE ALSO: 10 things you should know before starting the Mediterranean diet

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Buy from the bulk aisle.

"You can shop for your favorite nuts, legumes, and grains in the bulk section of most grocery stores," said nutritional chef Melissa Eboli, CNC.

Because you are not buying a brand-specific name and you are in control of the amount you are purchasing, she explained that this can be a huge help when trying to cut down costs.

Look for sales, especially on seafood.

"Most grocery stores have certain days of the week when they mark down certain seafood items," Eboli said.

Start to pay attention to what those days are so you can reap the discounted benefits, she advised.

Consider cooking with beans.

"Beans and legumes such as chickpeas, black beans, and lentils are not only good sources of fiber and plant-based proteins, but they are also really inexpensive," said registered dietitian Emily Cooper.