Nutrition on a budget

It is important that people living with Hep C eat a diet with adequate nutrients, including protein sources and vitamins and minerals from fruit and vegetables. This can be tough for people who have limited financial resources and often have to choose between food and shelter. 

Some key points of advice:

• Balance food intake with physical activity to maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid processed or fast food, which is high in fat and sugar

Some low-cost food choices:

Protein

Protein often comes from meat, which can be expensive. Choose alternate sources such as beans, lentils, peas or tofu. Canned tuna or salmon are also good and inexpensive (also low in fat). Protein can also be found in nuts, cheese, and eggs. Combine grains and beans for an inexpensive and complete source of protein.

Carbohydrates

Pasta and rice are easy to prepare and inexpensive. When buying pasta, choose whole grain pasta or pasta high in fibre. Look for whole grain breads and other baked goods on sale; buy “day old” bakery items and store them in the freezer until needed.

Fruits and vegetables

Canned or frozen fruits and vegetables are relatively inexpensive and store better than fresh. Different fruits and vegetables have different growing schedules—when a product is in season it is often cheaper and more widely available, so take advantage of these deals. Following the natural growing schedule will add variety to the diet.

Dairy

Powdered milk is a less expensive dairy product and does not spoil. Orange juice with added calcium can be an alternative source of calcium for people who are lactose intolerant.

Community food programs

For people who run into trouble affording food, many communities have food bank programs. Different food banks have different policies about accessing their services. Other possible food access programs include drop-ins, community kitchens, and meal programs. 

Choosing a grocery store is important: convenience stores or small 24-hour grocery shops tend to be more expensive than discount grocery stores or supermarkets. There's a price attached to the convenience of 24-hour availability. 

When possible, buying in bulk can save money. For example, breakfast cereals and oatmeal are much less expensive in bulk than in individual serving packets. This also applies to other staple items such as flour, sugar, dried fruits and nuts. 

There are programs where local farmers provide people with fresh fruit and vegetables every two to four weeks for a small fee. These can be cheaper than buying the vegetables individually.

Vitamins & Supplements

Consulting a doctor before taking vitamin supplements will limit the potential for liver damage. A multivitamin may be beneficial, particularly if the person eats irregularly or is not able to eat well. A physician can determine whether this is advisable.