How can you save money, free-up time, and be healthier? Meal planning! Food prepared at home eliminates eating out at a restaurant that would cost double the price. Preparing meals before the busy work week allows time for fun activities. Health benefits include: less saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars. Plan a Menu by Building a Balanced Meal When it comes to meal planning it is all about balance, variety, and moderation. These are the daily recommendations for adults according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans: Vegetables: 2 ½ cups Fruit: 2 cups Whole Grain: 6 oz Protein: 5 ½ oz Dairy/Calcium Containing Beverage: 3 cups Other considerations: Added Sugar: Less than 6 teaspoons per day for females and 9 teaspoons per day for males Saturated Fat: Total of 5-6% of total calories each day Sodium/Salt: Less than 2,300mg per [...]