I just did some checkbook analysis, comparing 2 months both currently and a year earlier and it's true. Despite all the fear and worry we hear about eating healthy being more expensive, I found that I am saving about $100 every month over what we were eating one year ago. It's not just snacks, either, though no doubt those play a big part in the numbers. It also is affected by the fact that since we are simply eating less there less to purchase. I'm preparing more fresh vegetables, and using fewer convenience (processed) foods. I think these convenience foods are a big part of my numbers.

I have no doubt that you are right! Everyone says that "healthy food" is more expensive, but only if you are buying the "healthier" pre-processed foods. I think fresh vegetables, can be less. I am just starting this process for my family. I live with my mom and my sister, as well as her 8YO daughter and 5yo son. I lost my job back in September and decided to go back to school, so I am taking over the cooking, shopping. I am now in the process of tracking receipts to see if there is anyway to reduce our family shopping. Good luck, and congrats!

Smart chickies! I don't have a family at home although my head still thinks I'm cooking for four. Since I smartened up a bit, I am buying smaller amounts of healthy real food and actually using it.

It also depends on where you live but I agree overall I'm saving a lot of money. I buy fresh produce and a lot less packaged and ready food. In fact pretty much all my meals are made from scratch now.

I save money because I don't buy all the fast food and snacks that I previously bought. That is not true for everyone though. You can get a box of Little Debbie's cakes with 10 cakes cheaper than you can buy 10 apples.

I did a fun thing when i first started -- instead of eating my McD double cheeseburger combo & DQ blizzard (BOTH DAYS) I took that money and put it away. I deducted an approximate value of some soup/sandwich that i replaced it with.... at the end of a few months only I could buy the Wii!!!! insane! I think you can absolutely spend less money eating well, for sure!