Food prices are continuing to rise, and show no signs of slowing down. And it's pinching people of all economic classes and nutrition advocates fear that it's going to result in people making cheaper, and less nutritious choices?

• Vote/Comment: Balancing Cost, Nutrition

Economists say today's food prices are rising at rates not seen since the 1970s. Here's a look at how the price of some popular staples have changed.

• Compare The Prices

Slight Changes, Weighty Dividends

* Watch portion sizes. Adults tend to overindulge on meats and grains. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends adults eat between 5 and 6 ounces of grains and 6 ounces or less of meat. For meat, that amounts to a piece of meat about the size of a deck of cards.

* Buy frozen or canned vegetables and fruits in their own juice. These are just as nutritious and cost a less than the fresh prices and can last longer.

* Focus on fruits and vegetables. Most adults need to eat more than two cups of vegetables and two cups of fruit a day. Adding them to meals can fill you up and cut down on less healthful foods.

* Know nutrition basics. Carbohydrates are sugars and should be eaten in moderation.

- Mary Shedden

Food Pyramid

How much should you eat from each food group?

• Grains | Vegetables | Fruits
• Milk | Meat & Beans | Oils

More Guidelines:

• Discretionary Calories
• Physical Activity

Healthy Cooking

Looking for healthy recipes?

• Extreme Recipe Makeovers
• Healthy Soul Food Recipes
• Search/Submit Healthy Recipes
• Healthy Family Guides (.pdf): English | Spanish

Related Links

• Consumer Price Index Average Price Data
• U.S. Department of Agriculture Recipe Finder
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  (formerly the Food Stamp Program)