I can tell you that I know how it is when money's tight. I never bought anything expensive. I couldn't even if I wanted to. I'm a single mom of 2 girls. I would do this clear liquid diet for a week and see if it works. I dropped 26lbs in 5 days with this diet. I dont know if you have a sav-a-lot where you live, but if you do go there. I had a cup of fruit cocktail, a cup of tea with sweet-n-low, a boost, a cup of chicken broth with a few crackers to give it taste. I did this 3 times a day. I also bought sugar-free popsiclesand eat them thought out the day when I got hunrgy. It was hard the first day but it got easier the next few days. I also started doing things to keep me busy to keep my mind off of food. Try this and if helps let me know. I also wouldn't buy the swanson chicken broth because it has no flavor buy a store brand. Use the same cups everyday to know that you're getting the same amount. Mix the broth and the boost up. Maybe one day use chicken and the next day use beef. Mix the boost flavors up also so you won't get tired of the same one. I wish you luck and if there's anything else I can help with please let me know.