Protein is a very important nutrient in our bodies. Some of the benefits of protein include increased muscle mass and weight loss. There are many sources of protein that suit every diet need. However, some people find healthy protein sources very expensive. As much as some protein sources are expensive, there are plenty of affordable alternatives.
In this article, we will discuss cheap and healthy sources of protein.
Eggs
Perhaps, eggs are the most nutritious food in the world. They are also very affordable— you will spend $2 on per dozen. Eggs are full of vitamins, healthy fats and other essential minerals. They are also very rich in proteins. In terms of weight, one egg is six grams. Introducing eggs to your diet is a reliable way for protein intake, and also reduces calorie intake, leading to weight loss. When you have eggs for breakfast, your body keeps hunger in check, making you consume less calories for the rest of the day. If you are after losing weight, this is a reliable way to do so.
A study found that people who took eggs for breakfast consistently for eight weeks lost 72% more weight than those that didn’t. Similarly, another study found that having eggs for breakfast suppresses ghrelin, the hunger hormone. It also helps with insulin response and stablizing blood sugar. Therefore, consuming eggs can lead to fewer cravings and reduced feeling of anger, a perfect recipe for weight loss.
Natural Peanut Butter
If you love peanut butter, then you love a natural source of protein! This product is very affordable, it will cost you only $2.50 for 450g jar of peanut butter. You get eight grams of protein from two spoonfuls of creamy peanut butter. There are many uses of peanut butter apart from being a great source of proteins. You can pair it with oatmeal and fruit or use it in a smoothie for protein boost.
Furthermore, studies have revealed that people who use peanut butter in their diets are less vulnerable to developing chronic dieses like diabetes and heart problems. If you want to avoid unwanted ingredients like oils and sugar, go for natural peanut butter.
Protein Supplements
Protein supplements like protein powder have been a valuable product on market. These products have various uses and applications. For example, they can used for muscle gain and reducing the recovery time after a workout. You can get various protein supplements from online retailers. Their products are very affordable and you can easily get them, no matter where you are.
Edamame
This delicious green bean is a natural source of protein you can get at a very affordable price. They are immature soyabeans that are sold both in the pod and shelled. Thanks to their delicious nature, these beans can be an excellent addition to meals like stir-frys and salads. Most notably, edamame is a great source of protein— a single cup of it provides a staggering 17 grams of protein.
If you are vegan or follow vegetarian diet, edamame is an excellent choice for you. This is because they contain all the vital amino acids required by the body. Just with 2$, you will get a 340-gram bag of edamame. Apart from your local grocery, you can also buy it through online shopping.
Plain Greek Yogurt
This is a low-cost, delicious and highly versatile source of protein. You can add it to a smoothie, eat it plain, add it to baked goods or whip it into a cup of veggies. It can be used in so many different ways.
The advantage with plain Greek yogurt is that it is extremely rich in proteins. In fact, a 224-gram tin of it will give you an impressive 17 grams of protein. This is almost double the amount of protein found in regular yogurts. Go for brands labeled “live and active cultures,” meaning the yogurt contains essential probiotics needed to improve gut health.
It can also lead to weight lose. If you want to keep your intake of unwanted sugar minimal, go for plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt. This product is also very affordable, with only $5, you get 680 grams of Greek yogurt.
Milk
As much as some people are not accustomed to milk, it is a very affordable source of protein. Research shows that milk proteins are highly absorbable. Besides, there are different fat percentages in milk, making it highly versatile. The product is widely available, making it a reliable source of protein. It will cost you $2.5 for half-a-gallon of conventional milk. It costs $4 for the same amount of organic milk.
There are over eight grams of highly absorbable proteins in one cup of milk. It also comes with loads of minerals and vitamins. Milk is also highly rich in phosphorus and calcium, minerals needed to keep bones healthy and strong. Furthermore, given its liquid state, milk can be used to make high-protein soups and smoothies.
Conclusion
Proteins are essential nutrients in our bodies. Luckily, the many affordable protein sources discussed in this article make it readily available. Visit your nearest grocery store, supermarket, or dairy shop for affordable protein sources!
3 Comments
wow didn’t know about Edamame, very educative article.
As everything is getting more expensive every day, sometimes eating healthy is not sustainable for everyone, thanks for sharing these healthy protein sources!
i love yogurt and peanut butter. Of course not together