12 Ways to Eat Better for Less

It's a myth that healthy food costs more, experts say.

True, certain foods, like baked chips or reduced-sugar or reduced-fat products, may cost more per ounce. But when you compare the costs of these foods to a serving of fruits or vegetables, the produce usually wins (except maybe when you're splurging on out-of-season produce). And let's face it, reduced-sugar cookies and baked snack foods aren't "must-haves" on anyone's food pyramid.

"When my clients start eating more healthfully, their grocery bills plummet," says Diet Simple author and nutritionist Katherine Tallmadge, RD.

She recommends comparing food prices based on the number of servings provided, along with the food's nutritional contribution. For example, one pound of peaches yields 3-4 servings. So when you divide the cost per pound, the cost is usually quite reasonable.

"The ideal food is nutrient-dense, not calorie-dense," Tallmadge says.

Healthy Foods Stretch Food Dollars

Healthier foods can actually save you money, according to 2002 a study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association. The researchers found that when families went on weight loss diets, they not only lost weight but reduced their food budgets.

The savings came from reducing portion sizes, and from buying fewer high-calorie foods, which tend to increase the amount spent at the grocery store, according to the authors of the yearlong study. People tend to spend a lot on the "extras" -- foods that add calories but little nutritional value, such as sodas, bakery items, and chips

Supermarket Trends

In a December 2004 survey of 804 shoppers, the Grocery Manufacturers Association found that most Americans (73%) are buying more nutritious food than ever before.

"Consumers have gotten the message from the media hype surrounding the [government's] new dietary guidelines and 'My Pyramid' that they need to eat more healthful foods, and they are responding," says Alison Kretser, MS, RD, senior director of scientific and nutrition policy for the manufacturers association.

In turn, manufacturers are rushing to create products to help consumers meet the new recommendations. And what exactly are consumers looking for?

"Whole grains topped the list, followed by low-fat, low-calorie, and reduced-sugar," Kretser explains. "We were surprised to see whole grains shoot to the top of the list, beating out low-fat foods for the first time ever in our surveys."

Of course, taste remains a very important consideration. The result is a wealth of new "better for you" products with improved taste, such as 50% whole wheat pasta.

"There is an enormous amount of reformulation occurring within the food industry in an attempt to capture the opportunity to help consumers meet dietary guidelines," says Kretser.

Your first step toward getting the biggest bang for your buck at the market, Tallmadge says, is to get organized. Take inventory of the food you have at home, and plan your meals in advance. Then consult your recipes, make a detailed shopping list -- and stick to it!