High protein diet for the cost conscious

[inflated]

I have been asked this by fellow trainers at the gym especially those who are college age and cost is a big issue. Here is a list of a few items that are definitely good for you, are high in protein and fairly inexpensive.

Eggs---a dozen eggs is less than $2 at most stores
Whole Milk--I prefer the organic whole milk its more costly but it keeps longer.
Beans- buy them dried make a soup---good nutrition for little cost
Frozen chicken breasts-- a large bag of frozen chicken breasts has been under $6 at our store for the last year
Pork tenderloin--pure lean meat pound for pound one of the least expensive and tastiest pieces of meat--do not get the pre-marinated they add a bunch of salt and other garbage.
Green beans--a large bag of fresh green beans less than $2--not frozen
Peanut butter--organic is best--less sugar, if your store has a grind your own machine thats even better
Chick peas---make your own hummus very reasonable and good

[cccatl]

A favorite trick of mine:

Order a cheap (and healthy) vegetarian meal. Then supplement with a protein shake. (a pure protein shake, not a meal-replacement powder with carbs in it).

one note: while beans are great and healthy, they are not a good protein source. They do have more protein than most plants, but they're still mostly carbs (~80%) vs. protein (~20%).

BTW, the same can be said for many cuts of meat. In many cases, the majority of calories will be fat and not protein. For example, typical ground beef is 75% fat and 25% protein (by calorie). Be sure to select lean meats.