The Recession Proof Diet: Eating Well Doesn't Have to Cost a Fortune

In these tough economic times, with grocery bills soaring, many people have begun to become concerned about food prices. Consider trying out a "recession diet" - a way of cutting your grocery bill to a more manageable size. A little bit of planning and a few small sacrifices can ease some of that supermarket tension, while still providing delicious and healthy meals for you and your family. There are ways to get great food at inexpensive prices.

Here are a few things to consider before your next shopping trip:

Go Vegetarian...

...at least once or twice a week. Let's face it, meat is expensive, and there are other ways of getting protein in your diet. Stock up on inexpensive sources of protein, like beans and lentils. Try substituting the meat in one of your weekly meals for red beans and rice, or black bean burritos. You'll notice a difference in your grocery bill right away.

Make more soups and stews

There is a reason that soups and stews are considered great cheap meals: you can more or less throw in any food you have lying around and come out with a great meal. Broth is cheap and easy to make, and frozen veggies can be added to create a healthy meal. Stews are wonderful for making cheaper cuts of meat more palatable, plus they are simple to make.

Consider buying cheaper alternatives to your normal foods for use in stews. For example, broccoli stems are just as nutritious and edible as the crowns, but cost less. Using them in a stew makes them much more pleasing!

Plan your meals in advance

Knowing exactly what you'll need for the week ultimately saves you time as well as money. Planning your diet ahead of time means fewer non-essentials at the supermarket checkout line. Plan all of your original meals, as well as meals using leftovers so that nothing goes to waste. Planning your diet may seem like a lot of work in the beginning, but the payoff will be worth it when you see your savings!

Do cut coupons, but carefully!

Coupons are great, if you know how to use them effectively. Don't be lured into buying something that isn't on your meal plan just because it's cheap with a coupon. Look for items that you already plan to buy (this is why planning meals in advance is so important!) and cut only those coupons. Resist the urge to deviate from foods on your normal diet.

Shop around

Just because you've been going to your favorite supermarket for years doesn't mean it's the cheapest store to find your meals. Check out discount supermarkets and stores that sell in bulk. Make sure to check the price per unit, though, as not all bulk products are really cheaper. If you have a freezer, buying in bulk can be a great idea, but again, try not to deviate from your diet plan.

Make your own...

...when it's feasible. If you have the time, consider baking your own bread and bagels, or making your own jam. If you have some space and a green thumb, try growing some common vegetables like tomatoes or cucumbers. These veggies can add freshness to any diet, and you'll have more than you know what to do with.

Buy frozen or canned

Given the choice between frozen or canned vegetables and fresh, the cheaper way to go is frozen. Frozen and canned vegetables last longer, are cheaper, and have just as much nutritional value as fresh. There is no reason to exclude vegetables as part of your diet.