Tip 1 : For a special treat, make homemade ice cream sandwiches using frozen yogurt and peanut butter between graham crackers.

Tip 2 : Learn to love beans! Try black bean enchiladas, white bean spread or edamame (green soybeans).

Tip 3 : Vary your veggies by including beans or peas in mixed dishes such as chili or minestrone soup.

Tip 4 : Add protein to your salads. Try different ingredients like eggs, tuna, grilled shrimp, chickpeas, or black beans.

Tip 5 : Fruit is a very handy, ready-to-go food. Many kinds can be eaten with little to no preparation other than rinsing.

Tip 6 : Choose fat-free or low-fat milk or yogurt more often than cheese. When selecting cheese, choose low-fat or reduced-fat versions.

Tip 7 : Add dried apricots or prunes to your slow cooker when making beef brisket. Check online for different recipes.

Tip 8 : Whole grains can be a good source of dietary fiber--choose grains with more fiber for additional health benefits.

Tip 9 : Try mixing different textures of fruits. For example, apples are crunchy, bananas are smooth and creamy, and oranges are juicy.

Tip 10 : Shopping tip: Find specials and coupons in your local paper or online for discounts on low-fat or fat-free dairy foods.