ASK MR. VITAMIN

 

CHEAPEST PROTEIN?

Q. About a month ago I had gastric bypass surgery. I spent all my savings on the surgery and can now barely afford to feed myself (luckily I don’t eat much anymore). As a result of the surgery, getting the right amount of protein is always an issue. I can no longer afford all of the fancy protein powders and ready-made shakes. What are the best sources of protein for the least dollars?
William T.

A. Many health food stores now carry bulk (scoop out desired amount and pay by the lb.) protein powder. Both soy, whey and possibly other sources are available in bulk for cheaper per pound prices than packaged protein varieties. If this is still too expensive then when buying groceries go for the following 10 least expensive sources of protein:

1. Canned Tuna, 40g. protein/can.
2. Whole Eggs. 7g protein/egg.
3. Whey. 1 scoop ON whey is 24g protein/30g serving.

4. Ground Beef. 25g protein/100g. Buy 80% ground beef and rinse the fat if lean beef is too expensive. You can reduce the fat content by as much as 50%. 
5. Milk. 30g protein/liter milk. If you're a skinny guy, want to gain weight fast and don't bother gaining some fat, drink 1 gallon raw milk per day. Don't worry about the saturated fat. Stay away from milk if you want to lose fat.
6. Frozen Chicken Breast. 25g protein/100g. Cook the frozen chicken breast using a George Foreman Grill. Consume the chicken breast within 2 months of freezing for optimal tenderness & taste.
7. Cottage Cheese. 12g protein/100g. Cottage cheese is more expensive in Europe than in the US. We buy Quark cheese: 10g protein per 100g, cheaper than cottage cheese and a better taste.
8. Ground Turkey. 25g protein/100g. Expensive cuts are made from turkey breast. Cheaper cuts can contain skin, which increases the fat content. Rinse the fat like for ground beef using this method.
9. Canned Mackerel. 23g protein/100g. Canned mackerel is high in omega-3, contains less mercury than canned tuna, and tastes a lot better too.
10. Calves Liver. 20g protein/100g. Low fat and nutrient dense. Contrary to what you might believe, liver is safe. 

Bonus Tips. Buy generic food. Buy in bulk to get discounts. Freeze everything. Get a job if you don't have one. Increase your income if you do. Cut expenses.  Yea...easy for me to say.

AMV*Health Disclaimer: This information is not presented by a medical practitioner and is for educational and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.