6 Budget-Friendly Anti-Inflammatory Foods from Dollar Tree, Recommended by a Chef

Maintaining a healthy diet doesn’t have to break the bank—you can find inflammation-fighting basics such as beans, nuts, and veggies for merely $1.25.

Reviewed by Registered Dietitian Annie Nguyen, M.A.

Searching for nutritious items at a supposedly low-cost retailer could seem like an unexpected approach, yet maintaining a healthy diet doesn't have to tie into high-end supermarkets or exorbitant prices of goods. Being a professional culinary writer constantly seeking out distinctive deals and affordable methods to enhance wellness, I've discovered that Dollar Tree houses several unforeseen inflammation-fighting gems—provided you're aware of where to search.

Our bodies excel at managing brief bouts of inflammation that aid in healing wounds or battling infections. I love sharing with my children that our bodies "automatically" mend scrapes, seal cuts, and assist an upset stomach in feeling better. However, persistent inflammation tells a separate tale. It occurs when our bodies remain perpetually in an inflamed condition. inflammation Thanks to stress, processed foods, or environmental factors, this situation may result in various health problems ranging from sore joints to severe conditions such as heart diseases, autoimmune disorders, nervous system illnesses, or even cancer. Foods rich in anti-inflammatories act akin to tiny firefighters within our body, helping soothe inflammation—the fiery issue—by utilizing specific blends of biologically active substances, antioxidants, and vital nutrients. Recent studies also suggest possible benefits of these foods concerning mental well-being and degenerative brain ailments! While we refer to them using the term “anti-inflammatory,” anti-inflammatory Although it may seem costly or complex, let me assure you that it doesn't have to be. Actually, numerous nutrient-dense foods can be found right in the Dollar Tree stores.

Related: 9 Top Anti-Inflammatory Foods You Can Get at Costco, Says a Food Expert

Successfully navigating Dollar Tree requires consistent visits and keen observation. The store carries many heavily processed food products, making thoughtful browsing essential. Pay special attention to the canned goods and freezer sections where you'll find wholesome options such as beans, lentils, tomatoes, oily fish, and both fresh-frozen veggies and fruits. These areas may also include non-perishable produce alternatives like canned pumpkin or yams, excellent sources of beta carotene. Don’t forget to explore the spice racks; look for simple ingredients like black pepper, ginger, turmeric, apple cider vinegar, and mustard with straightforward label listings. Opt for unsweetened versions of dehydrated snacks, including freeze-dried apples or dried cranberries. Minimize consumption of overly processed or refined foods by carefully reading packaging details and prioritizing natural choices whenever feasible. Additionally, be aware that inventory fluctuates based on site-specific availability and seasonal changes—so seize opportunities when familiar favorites appear. Ultimately, enjoy exploring what could unexpectedly turn into quite a treasure trove of healthy selections. To kick things off, here are six top picks from me: most cost just $1.25 each.

Related: 7 Inflammation-Fighting Foods I Always Have in My Shopping Cart Each Week, Says a Food Expert

1. Chicken of the Sea Wild-Caught Skinless and Boneless Pink Salmon

Discovering wild-caught salmon at Dollar Tree priced at $1.25 seems like hitting the jackpot. Each 2.5-ounce container of Chicken of the Sea pink salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Since our body cannot synthesize these nutrients on its own, they're crucial for our well-being and must be sourced through our food. Because of their importance, I ensure to stock up multiple packets of salmon in my kitchen to whip up swift salad lunches and sandwich fillings as well as simple meals. salmon patties Blend crumbles of rich salmon with freshly chopped herbs, a raw egg, panko breadcrumbs, along with a spoonful of Greek yogurt and mustard, turning it all into an easy-to-make, delicious, high-protein dish.

Related: What Occurs to Your System When You Consume Salmon?

2. TJ Farms Frozen Veggies

I'll usually opt for fresh vegetables over frozen due to their taste, yet I have nothing against frozen veggies either. They're highly nutritious, budget-friendly, and incredibly convenient. Fortunately, the frozen veggie aisle at Dollar Tree offers an array of anti-inflammatory choices. Convenience reigns supreme here. My favorite pick from this selection is the TJ Farms riced cauliflower, which I incorporate into smoothies and sauces without having to prep a full head of cauliflower myself. This adds more fiber and nutrients to aid in reducing chronic inflammation. The seasoning blend offered by TJ Farms includes ingredients commonly referred to as part of the "Cajun Trinity" — onions, celery, along with red and green bell peppers. On busy days, I rely on this mixture instead of finely chopping a traditional mirepoix. Most importantly, these additional bell peppers contribute significantly. prevent cell damage into my body and slip in an additional dose of vitamin C. Each bag costs $1.25; the cauliflower rice weighs 10 ounces, whereas the seasoning blend comes in at 12 ounces.

Related: 13 Dishes That Begin With a Pack of Frozen Cauliflower Rice

3. TJ Farms' Frozen Berries

For $3 per 20 ounces of frozen berries, this item is significantly more costly than anything else listed here; however, it could potentially offer one of the better values within the entire store. Blueberries and strawberries stand out as rich sources of antioxidants, brimming with substances that assist in combating heart conditions, high blood pressure, and inflammation. I incorporate them into my routine smoothies , overnight oats and desserts And even warm them gently to enhance my breakfast yogurt. Frozen berries are perfect, however, for preparing a swift dessert. chia jam Simply cook it on the stove until it becomes soft; then mix in a bit of maple syrup, a splash of lemon juice, and a few spoons of chia seeds. Stir well and allow the chia seeds to do their thing. My children cannot Identify the distinction between this and conventional jam.

Related: 5 Nutritious Staples I Regularly Purchase at Dollar Tree, Says a Food Author

4. Sunco Natural Classic Style Oats

A staple in my pantry is the 1-pound package of Sunco Natural traditional oats. I usually purchase four to six packages together because we use them up very quickly. These oats have particular components known as avenanthramides, which act as antioxidants with potency levels 10 to 30 times greater than those commonly found in other grains. When I prepare some, a batch of oatmeal using cinnamon and frozen berries for an added boost of anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, I incorporate oats into the mix. oatmeal muffins , pseudo birthday cakes or to share my favorite overnight oats The dual-action anti-inflammatory therapy with this method As far as I'm concerned, every type of oat is delicious.

Related: Ways to Prepare Oatmeal and 5 Suggestions for Enhancing It

5. Nature's Garden Shredded Walnuts and Bits

These 2-ounce packages of walnuts are just right for my household. Since my daughter has an allergy to walnuts, we avoid keeping big amounts at home. However, recognizing that they're among the top suppliers of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids—a key component in combating inflammation—and have recently been acknowledged as a "healthful" option by the FDA, I occasionally open a packet, lightly brown them, and store them until she’s gone off to class. Crisped walnuts make for a great standalone treat, yet I equally enjoy tossing them into green salads or topping Greek yogurt with them for added texture.

Related: What Occurs to Your Body If You Consume Walnuts Daily?

6. Brown's Premium Dehydrated Pinto Beans

A $1 bag of Brown’s Best dried pinto beans from Dollar Tree might be one of your most cost-effective options for protein. These beans provide about 12 grams of protein per cup, along with being high in fiber and abundant in an antioxidant called kaempferol. This naturally occurring plant component and flavonoid helps decrease inflammation and shields cells from damage caused by free radicals, potentially reducing the likelihood of developing certain neurological disorders and cancers. Personally, I prefer preparing batches of pinto beans and other legumes ahead of time. Instant Pot , then utilize them throughout the week in soups And tacos or mixed with seasonings for a nutritious, multi-layered dip.

Related: What Occurs to Your Body If You Consume Beans Every Day... or Alternating Days

The Bottom Line

Going to Dollar Tree may not typically seem like an ideal option for acquiring health-focused items, yet the financial benefits are clear. Whether it’s heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon and walnuts or antioxidants present in frozen berries packed with nutrients along with high-fiber beans, these affordable options show that wholesome meals can indeed cater to all budgets. By carefully examining labels and planning ahead when purchasing, you have the chance to fill up your kitchen shelves with inflammation-reducing edibles that boost well-being without breaking the bank.

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