(GUEST) 10 Superfoods To Boost Your Health

Some people believe that just because they are financially challenged that they can’t eat healthfully.

However, this is far from the truth. Below is a list of 10 superfoods that cost less than $5 that you can eat every day to boost your health just a little more.

1. Oats

They are rich in soluble fiber and consuming up to 10 grams a day can help drop your cholesterol level by up to 5 percent. The quick-cooking ones are just as healthy; just stay away from the small oatmeal packets because they are high in glucose sugars. The price per serving of each 1/3 uncooked cup is $.15.

2. Almonds

Just a single ounce serving (or 23 nuts) can push your Vitamin E consumption up to 37 percent. They are also rich in calcium, fiber, folate and flavonoids. $.63 is the average price per ounce.

3. Tea

Both green and black tea are high in antioxidants, which helps strengthen the immune system and promote heart health. In fact, research has shown that those who consume up to 12 ounces of tea per day cut their risk of heart disease by almost half. The average price of each tea bag is only $.10.

4. Oranges

A single orange can give you your entire days’ worth of vitamin C. Plus, its amount of fiber (3 grams) and water can keep you feeling full for hours. The average price of each orange is about $.34.

5. Peanut butter

Peanut butter contains a variety of nutrients, including vitamin E, zinc, poly- and monounsaturated fats, all of which promote heart health. However, stick with natural peanut butter, such as Smuckers or Teddie, to avoid processed oils and sugar. The average price of two tablespoons of peanut butter is only $.21.

6. Apples

Apples contain a very wide variety of minerals, some of which help to boost heart health. It is also known to be at the top of the list for natural laxatives and this is believed to be due to a fiber called pectin and polyphenols. The average price of a single apple is $.20, depending on the variety.

7. Eggs

The whites alone contain 4 grams of protein while the yolk is rich in vitamin D, lutein and xeanathanin. The very latter lowers the risk of macular degeneration and a single egg contains only 80 calories. The average price of a single egg is $.10.

8. Carrots

Carrots contain a form of vitamin A called beta-carotene. This can help to lower the risk of osteoporosis as it is a bone strengthener as well as an immune booster. A single cup of carrots costs, on average, is only $.32.

9. Cabbage

Cabbage is a rich cruciferous vegetable that can help lower the risk of cancer. It is rich in vitamins C, K, fiber and detoxifying sulfur compounds. The average price of a single cup is $.27.

10. Berries

Berries are a good source of fiber, anthocyanins, antioxidants and ellagic acid. All of these help to sharpen memory, promote digestive health and lower risks of cancer. The average price per 1b ranges from $1 to $4, depending on the time of year.

Stephanie Lynch

 

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Stephanie Lynch is a mother of two and resides in Gilbert, Arizona. She helps run the cost-helping database, Howmuchisit.org. She is a lover of the great outdoors, gym, her children and wonderful husband. As an advocate of heath, she wants to make sure everyone understands how healthy you can eat for less than a few dollars a day.