Eat More Protein on a Budget

Copyright (c) 2014 LifeWorks Integrative health

Protein, fats and carbohydrates are three sources of energy that are needed in order for your body to function properly. Food manufacturers across the country have made it extremely easy for you to consume fats and carbohydrates without the need for a second job. Protein, on the other hand, has a tendency to be a little more on the expensive side. Take a look at protein bars or protein powder next time you head to the store to get an idea of just how expensive protein can get. Aside from individuals who are dealing with liver or kidney disease, protein is hardly restricted from any form of dieting. As a result, those who want protein are going to have to pay the price tag that comes along with protein. Fortunately, there are inexpensive ways to sneak protein into your meals. Let's take a look at some of the expensive ways to sneak protein into your meals. You can consume protein on a budget.What are some foods that are expensive ways to sneak protein into your meals?

Rye Berries. Rye Berries are one of the inexpensive ways to sneak protein into your meals. Known as the collard greens of whole grains, rye seeds are known for their durability in poorer soils as well as for their difficulty to cook. Rye seeds are also packed with a number of different nutrients including iron, fiber and magnesium. Rye berries do not taste like rye bread, but it is also important to note that rye berries are an incomplete protein. You can purchase a pound of rye berries for just a couple of dollars at your local grocery store.

Lentils. Lentils contain more protein than all legumes including soybeans and hemp. As a result, consuming lentils is one of the best and inexpensive ways to sneak protein into your meals. Lentils contain folate and fiber. Much like rye berries, lentils are an incomplete protein that require consumption with another food. Lentils are also a great source of carbohydrates. In most locations, a one-pound bag of house-brand lentils at a local grocery store or big-box store will cost slightly over one dollar.

Peas. Peas are another one of those inexpensive ways to sneak protein into your meals. There can be as many as 8 grams of protein in one cup of peas. Peas also contain dietary fiber, phosphorus as well as vitamins B1, B6 and K. This vegetable can be purchased frozen, dry or fresh and can be eaten in salads, as a side dish or consumed as a snack. Peas can generally be purchased at any grocery store for around $3 or less.

Eggs. Chances are you already have eggs in your home. Eggs are another one of those inexpensive ways to sneak protein into your meals. One carton of eggs contains a total of 72 grams of protein. Eggs contain 3.6 grams of protein.6 grams per egg. A carton of eggs will run you just over two dollars in most locations.

Parmesan Cheese. Low-moisture cheeses are normally the highest when it comes to proteins. Parmesan is the highest when it comes to low-moisture cheeses. Nearly 40 percent of the composition of parmesan cheese is protein. Shaking parmesan cheese over pasta or a salad is one of those inexpensive ways to sneak protein into your meals. A five-ounce package is normally about three to four dollars.

Canned Tuna. Meat and meat substitutes are normally amongst the most expensive forms of protein that you can buy. However, canned tuna is the exception when it comes to an expensive meat/meat substitute form of protein. Canned tuna is lower in mercury than solid tuna. However, it is important to remember that you should not consume this protein more than once a week. You are able to purchase canned tuna for a couple of dollars at your local grocery store.

Plain Greek Yogurt. Greek yogurt is known for being high in protein and sometimes a little on the pricey side. However, this does not mean you need to avoid this low-fat treat. Plain greek yogurt can also be used as a substitute for sour cream and mayonnaise. When purchasing greek yogurt as one of the inexpensive ways to sneak protein into your meals, you should opt to by a larger container and look for it when it's on sale at your local grocery store.

1 Percent Cottage Cheese. Cottage cheese is packed with protein. Additionally, it contains 15 percent of the daily recommended intake of calcium as well as vitamin B12 and phosphorus. Stay clear of cottage cheeses that contain additives. At your local grocery store, cottage cheese will only cost you around two dollar.