Antioxidants On The Cheap

Acai and wild blueberries out of your price range? Get your antioxidants on the cheap with nutrient superstars like black rice and beans.

You don’t have to eat the world’s most exotic superfoods to get the antioxidants you need. Nor do you need fancy processed foods that boast high levels of the latest and greatest nutrient. Some of the most healthful foods are also some of the cheapest.

Antioxidants aren’t found only in crimson-colored berries. They exist in several plant-based foods, including seeds, whole grains and beans. Ten bites of black rice, for instance, will deliver just as many anthocyanin antioxidants as a spoonful of blueberries, along with extra fiber and vitamin E.

You can supercharge your diet without breaking the bank by stocking up on these versatile, nutrient-packed foods: black and red beans; brown or black rice; fresh apples, tomatoes, carrots, onions and romaine lettuce; frozen spinach and broccoli; canned salmon; rolled oats; spices such as garlic, oregano and turmeric; cocoa powder; and tea.

Eating a colorful, healthful and minimally processed diet will earn you all the vitamins and antioxidants you need, even if you never sink your teeth into an acai berry.