Here's food for thought: Eating at home benefits consumers in more ways than one. Not only can it be less expensive to prepare food at home, but it can be far healthier to enjoy a wholesome, home-cooked meal.

To begin with, when you prepare the meal you know exactly what's on everybody's plate. According to the Alliance for Affordable Services, reviewing the recipe, measuring the ingredients and adapting them to your dietary needs ensures that you consume healthier fare.

Most people like to get their money's worth out of a restaurant. As a result, many eateries provide more food than your body actually needs. Preparing a meal at home allows you the flexibility to ration appropriate amounts of food-and controlling your food intake promotes weight management and good health.

Another benefit to preparing a home-cooked meal is the time shared with family and friends. Your home is an intimate setting where you can enjoy the company of others while giving them more of your attention.

The Alliance for Affordable Services is dedicated to helping members live better and save more. The association uses its group buying power to attack soaring health care costs through wellness programs, information, legislative advocacy and incentives to control medical costs.