Do choose foods wisely and eat correct portions

It's tempting to cut food bills by stuffing yourself with cheap white bread, white rice, sugar and $1 fast-food burgers. But junk food makes you feel lousy and is expensive in the long run because it promotes obesity and disease.

Good food doesn't have to cost a lot. Check out ethnic markets and produce stands, where some vegetables and fruits cost half of what supermarkets charge. Eat more beans (they really are good for your heart!). Oatmeal is cheaper and more nutritious than packaged cereals. Forget filet mignon, but try a few slices of flank steak on a bed of sautéed greens. Eggs have gone up in the past year but remain a filling nutritional bargain.

Cook together as a family to eat better and get closer. Pack your lunch. Drink tap water instead of overpriced bottled water. When you do dine out, split an entree. You don't need to overeat to enjoy yourself. And you'll save money.

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