While we spent quite a bit to start phase one, there are more economical choices. This diet allows 1/2 cup serving size of several varieties of beans (Kidney of all colors, black, butter, limas, green, wax, chickpeas, hummus etc.) Water-packed tuna, light, and a wide assortment of lower cost vegetables like cabbage.
Its the salads that really add up this time of year. We've converted several soup recipes for lunch instead that are far more economical, especially if you shop at Costco.