• Dieting doesn't have to be taxing.diet and health image by Photoeyes from Fotolia.com
  
  Without the right information and nutrition plan, dieting can be unrewarding -- and expensive. If you're feeling the pinch in your pockets as well as your waistline, knowing what budget diet foods are available is important. To start, always cook your own meals; this ensures that you know exactly what you are eating, and saves you from spending on costly diet meals and meal replacements.
  
  

Fruit and Vegetables

• Fruit and vegetables are the foundation of any healthful diet plan. Local, seasonal produce is often your least-expensive option. For extra savings, avoid the supermarket and buy from a farmer's market. If you must buy an off-season variety, head for the freezer aisle. Frozen fruit and vegetables also contain less sodium than their canned counterparts.
  
  

Eggs

• Protein helps the body repair and sustain muscle and connective tissue -- something that is particularly important when reducing your caloric intake. With a protein-to-fat ratio of 60:1, egg whites should be a staple in any diet. Eggs are relatively inexpensive, but a farmer's market may often be your cheapest option.
  
  

Brown Rice

• Brown rice is a superb source of complex carbohydrates, which release energy slowly into your body, leaving you feeling fuller for longer and preventing hunger pangs. Cook a big batch and eat with vegetables and a lean cut of meat. Eat what is left over cold with salad and low-fat cottage cheese.
  
  

Beans and Legumes

• Beans and legumes are low-cost sources of quality fiber and protein. Add to a salad or casserole for variety. Most beans have are high in protein content and low in calories and fat.
  
  

Soups

• Be creative -- make your own soups from leftovers. This is a great way to use up those vegetables that are nearing the end of their shelf life. Boil them up with some water and stock to make an easy, low-cost meal or snack.
  
  

Grow Your Own!

• Set up a vegetable garden in your yard. Growing your favorite fruits and vegetables is rewarding and will save you a lot of money. In addition, you'll burn extra calories tending it.