In an effort to stay ahead of fast food competition, cut calories and shake off a recent slide in their stock price, Krispy Kreme unveiled its latest health-harming "innovation" this week: The whole-wheat doughnut.

Absent in these news accounts about this glazed, caramel monstrosity, checking in at 180 calories, however, is any indication it's trans-fat free, meaning it's just as worthless as any other doughnut is to eat. By the way, another snack-food giant, Hostess, joined the calorie-conscious fray, introducing 100 Calorie Packs of three, two-bite cupcakes, marketed as portion-controlled convenience.

Why all the interest? According to a recent study, 79 percent of restaurant patrons are concerned about the fat content in the foods they eat and 73 percent are worried about calories. That's no surprise at all, considering a third of the average American's daily calories come from foods eaten outside the home.

One of the best ways to optimize your health and live longer: Spend some serious time in the kitchen preparing your own food. And, you can find and afford healthier foods -- even on a budget -- if you know where to look.