6 cheap superfoods that won't break the bank

Superfoods have burst onto the wellness scene over the last couple of years in a big way. What comes with a nutritional punch can put a sizable hole in your bank balance. Eating well and getting the most from your food doesn’t have to cost you the earth. Here are some of VITL’s top superfoods that will give you a nutritional bang for your buck:

1. Banana

Bananas are full of potassium, which has been linked to reduced blood pressure as well as the maintenance of fluid and electrolyte balance, a vital component of health. Not only that, bananas are a great source of tryptophan - an amino acid that’s used to make serotonin, your ‘happy’ neurotransmitter.  You can make bananas go further by sticking them in the freezer. They can be popped into smoothies, desserts and make a great dairy ice cream replacement 

2. Avocado 

Full of healthful monounsaturated fat, just half of this green-fruit counts as one portion of your 5-a-day. Avocados also pack in loads of fibre, antioxidants, vitamin K and E.  Like bananas, avocados also freeze to be used whenever you need them, and can also be used in desserts and smoothies

3. Green tea

Green tea can be prepared hot or cold and is a great alternative to other caffeinated beverages,  such as black tea and coffee when you want something a little gentler. Green tea is packed full of powerful antioxidants that are thought to protect against cancer as well as bioflavonoids that can protect against infection. When it’s consumed regularly, it has been thought to protect against Alzheimer's, liver damage and cancer. All that for 0 calories!  

4. Oats

The humble oat (we’re talking about the sugar-free, steel-cut kind) is high in fibre and other nutrients including antioxidants. Oats have been found to lower cholesterol and speed up your metabolism, making them a winning choice for breakfast

5. Dark chocolate

Cocoa is high in antioxidants and polyphenols, which may help with preventing cancer and heart disease. To get the most benefits out of chocolate, go for 70% dark (or more if you dare!) and don’t heat your chocolate, as this destroys its health-boosting properties

6. Beans and lentils

Not just to be famed for their fibre content, beans and lentils full of protein and low in fat, and are also low GI, making them great for those who are paying close attention to their sugar levels. Some beans also confer other benefits: the outer coating of black beans are rich in anthocyanins (a powerful antioxidant that protects against cancer and heart disease) whilst black eyed beans are high in potassium (important for fluid and electrolyte balance) 

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Related articles on VITL Life: 

• Superfoods For Endurance

• Could Coffee Actually Be A Superfood?

• Dark Chocolate Superfood Matcha Bars