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Old 08-31-06, 07:31 AM
  #12  
Redrom
Tossed some weight
 
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Location: Northampton, MA
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It sounds like you're committed to eating healthy food. If so, don't underestimate the value of beans and grains for sustaining you between meals. Their cost compared to meat (especially if not full of hormones and preservatives), will help bring down your bill. Don't get me wrong, there's definitely a cost associated with eating healthy.

We used to spend ~$700 a month for a family of 4, including going out to eat and shopping ~50% at Whole Foods. We now spend 1/3 at the Farmer's Market, 1/3 at Whole Foods, and 1/3 at Costco (almost entirely produce and nuts), and spend nearly $250 a week for 4. But it's not just the cost that it has impacted us - it's also the time spent. I estimate that we used to spend 5 hours a week between the two of us, preparing foods and now we spend at least 15.

For us, the benefits are worth the time and money spent . We each have lost about 50 lbs. (well, the boys are still gaining weight ), and we have a new found excitement in our menu planning and preparation. We are healthier - haven't had a Dr. visit this year (except as a precautionary test to check vitamin levels in the boy's). Comparing that to last year when we probably had 20 Doctor's visits over the year between the 4 of us, and it helps make us feel like the money's spent as a health investment.
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