Easy Affordable Diets

Finding an inexpensive and effective diet can be a challenge as nutritious products tend to cost more than cheaper, refined foods. Affordable diets focus on the consumption of complex carbohydrates like fruit, vegetables and whole grain products which are inexpensive. However, always consult a physician before starting a diet program.

Cabbage Soup Diet

The Cabbage Soup Diet concentrates on quick weight loss over a short period of time. According to an article on bodybuilding.com, cabbage soup and water are the prime components of the meal plan. Fruits, vegetables and meats are allowed on a restricted basis. One drawback to the Cabbage Soup Diet is that it's not a long term weight loss solution. The diet is also not nutritionally balanced.

Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean Diet stresses high fat consumption and complex carbohydrate consumption. The fats are healthy, or good fats like monounsaturated oil. Olive oil is a central fat source of the Mediterranean Diet. Carbohydrates allowed are cereals, vegetables and fruits. Sweets, cheese and meat are limited on the Mediterranean Diet. The diet can lower the risk of heart disease due to the high level of healthy fats included. The diet is easy to follow because it allows a wide selection of foods while the emphasis on complex carbohydrates makes it affordable.

The Mayo Clinic Diet

The Mayo Clinic diet is based on following the Mayo Clinic Healthy Weight Pyramid. Using the pyramid as the basis of your diet helps you lose or maintain your weight by eating primarily fruits, vegetables and complex carbohydrates. The Mayo Clinic advises eating a minimum number of three servings of fruits and vegetables each day along with four to eight servings of carbohydrates. The diet also contains an exercise component.

Very Low Fat Diets

Very low fat diets like the Ornish or Pritikin diet contain high carbohydrates, moderate to low protein and less than 10 percent fat. Whole grains, beans, fruits and vegetables make up the bulk of a very low fat diet. Soy products and no fat dairy comprise a moderate part of very low fat diets. Very low fat diets are either vegetarian or permit a small amount of lean animal protein like fish or chicken.