Looking to save a few bucks and shed a few pounds? Consider meatless Mondays. Americans consume way more meat (on average, 260 pounds a year) than our bodies are meant to handle, which adds up to extra poundage. With swimsuit season just around the corner, who can afford that?

Here’s how to do it: consider replacing meat with another high-protein item, such as nuts or mushrooms. Mushrooms are an especially good substitution as they contain a lot of healthy protein, and the consistency resembles meat. May we suggest a pot of mushroom chili?

Oh, and there’s another bonus. Since 2006, the average cost per pound of beef has risen to over $4.40 a pound (it was $3.97 in 2006) and is steadily continuing to rise. Assuming the average family eats 2 lbs of meat per meal, that’s a savings of $457.60 a year.  That’s enough for a new summer wardrobe!