You don't have to be a vegetarian to enjoy a meat-free day every now and then. Try to set aside one or two days a week to substitute meat with something healthier. Eating this way once a week or more can add up to a lot in the long run.

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Diets high in saturated fat, found mainly in meat and high-fat dairy products, increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke. Going meatless for a day will help bring variety into your diet. It will also save you money and cooking time. Meat tends to be much more expensive than more healthful vegetables and whole grains, plus it takes longer to cook. Meat, eggs and dairy products tend to have more of a risk of food poisoning, too, especially when it's not cooked well. Canned and frozen veggies are great, economical options, and so is your local farmer's market. If you think replacing the meat in your favorite recipes is too difficult, then check out some of the meatless options in the supermarket freezer.