Just figured that whey protein is way cheaper than protein from chicken. My question: Can I simply replace all the chicken in my diet with whey protein? :

Question

Just figured that whey protein is way cheaper than protein from chicken. My question: Can I simply replace all the chicken in my diet with whey protein?

Reply

real food is where it's at, as everyone has said. that said, whey is good for pre-workout because of the absorption rate and broad amino acid profile. casein is slower, probably better during recovery (night or non-lifiting days).

regarding the beef/steak. watch out for 'pink slime' (ammonia-treated) ground beef. ideally, go for grass-fed/organic or pasture-raised.
eggs are another low-cost protein source not to be forgotten, but don't skimp, get the quality (again, pasture-raised if possible) one.
Trader Joe's has some half-decent options, most other stores seem to charge too much.