DENVER -- A report released this week by The Nielsen Company showed that nearly two-thirds of consumers are reducing spending due to high gas prices.

The report, which was based on surveys from nearly 50,000 people across the country, found that consumers are combining shopping trips, staying home more often and eating out less to reduce spending.

Carpooling and the use of public transportation has also increased over the past year.

"With gas prices passing the $4 per gallon mark, consumers are altering their driving and spending habits at dramatic levels," said Todd Hale, senior vice president of the consumer and shopper insights division of The Nielsen Company.

Nielsen reported that coupon use and shopping at super centers had increased by 25 percent since December while sales for name brand products are down.