Chris McDaniel, a staff reporter for the Yuma Sun wrote an article about how the bad economy may have had an unintended and positive effect on the way people eat. And it may lower cancer rates!

Forty percent of Americans say they are cooking at home now to save money. The American Institute of Cancer Research (AICR) says that this could translate into Americans eating healthier foods in smaller portions.

These same people said they were eating less fast food and more vegetables and fruits. They were also eating less meat and exercising more.

This is what I’ve been saying all along. When we eat out, the portions are way too big and we eat too much meat, salt and fat! And that leads to a risk of cancer and other chronic diseases.

AICR says to save even more money, buy frozen vegetables and fruits. (With no sugar or sauce added.) Unlike fresh produce you don’t have to worry about it spoiling before you get to it. Beans are also cheap and nutritious. They are high in protein and fiber and low in calories.

Instead of salt, which raises the risk of stomach cancer and high blood pressure, add other savory seasonings like oregano, basil, thyme, parsley, sage, rosemary, dill, bay leaves, turmeric, paprika and chili powder.

People cooking at home can also keep it healthy by steaming, poaching, stewing, stir frying or sautéing their food. Deep frying adds a lot of fat and calories. Stir clear!

For dessert you if really crave something sweet, have fruit, frozen yogurt or Jell-O

And another way to save money is to avoid sodas or other sugary drinks and consume tap water or home-brewed ice tea instead.

An excellent silver lining to the bad economy would be better health, wouldn’t it?