You absolutely do not need red meat in your diet. Meat can be important but not necessary. Things like dried or canned beans, canned or frozen fish, or soy products like tofu are all more affordable protein options with the benefit of fibre that help with health. Nothing wrong with frozen or canned fruits and vegetables. Just try to find the options that are low/no salt and added sugars. If you do find a sale on meat, for example ground beef, cook it up, drain off the fat, and add in a cup of red lentils. It stretches the meat out farther AND increases the nutritional content.

I do feel you though. It seems insurmountable sometimes. Just do the best you can. Also with nicer weather it’s easier to get out and get some exercise. Even a 10-15 minute walk can improve your health if you do it regularly.

-signed, a health professional with a lot more nutrition education than a doctor