newbie

Hi,

I was wondering if someone could offer some cost effective protein options for me. I am allergic to eggs and b/c of my hypothyroidism (and stomach issues) I am supposed to avoid gluten, soy, and dairy. My doctor wants me to try to increase my protein intake but I am not a big meat eater. I’m not vegetarian but meat for breakfast just doesn’t sound good and organic, antibiotic/hormone free meat is expensive. Before I found out I was allergic to eggs I used eggs as away to get in some inexpensive protein. I also would do whey protein powder (now I can’t b/c of the dairy) Got any advice?

Thanks,
Lisa

Hi Lisa,

I can quite relate, unfortunately. I’m allergic to wheat, soy, all dairy, & chicken, aside from some other things, & also have hypothyroidism. The most cost-effective options I’ve found for protein are canned salmon, Shelton’s turkey wings, and, obviously, beans.

You must avoid inexpensive tuna, as all the major brands of inexpensive, water-based tuna I’ve investigated use a wheat/soy broth. Home-canned tuna is much more affordable than the higher quality tuna from stores. Also, this requires some work. Flavor-wise, it is unbeatable, and YOU control the ingredients.

Joining (or starting) a co-op can really cut down on the costs of dry goods in particular. Another really cost-effective option, but one that requires storage space and a large upfront cost is purchasing a share of a cow or lamb. It is best to find a small farm where you can discuss your concerns directly with the owner, i.e. grass-fed, no antibiotic use, etc. The great thing about this is not having to shop as much, obtaining very good quality meat at a pretty low cost, and having something to cook up on hand all the time. I also arrange to share the purchase with family members, so I don’t have to buy too much.

When you have the amount of food limitations you are describing, your food costs will end up being expensive – but that is a necessary part of keeping your health. I say this from unpleasant experience; please don’t neglect yourself out of sparing your pocketbook.

Take care,

K

Beans and nuts are high in protein

Nuts and Seeds
Peanut butter, 2 Tablespoons – 8 grams protein
Almonds, ¼ cup – 8 grams
Peanuts, ¼ cup – 9 grams
Cashews, ¼ cup – 5 grams
Pecans, ¼ cup – 2.5 grams
Sunflower seeds, ¼ cup – 6 grams
Pumpkin seeds, ¼ cup – 19 grams
Flax seeds – ¼ cup – 8 grams

Hey,

Thanks guys! I’ll look into a co-op. I have 3 boys who will eventually be 3 teenage boys having a large freezer probably be something we need in the future anyways. I haven’t thought of canning my own tuna. What a great idea!

Pumpkin seeds have 19 grams of protein in 1/4 cup! Wow!

Thanks again for your help!
Lisa