The clean 15

Best HealthUpdated: Aug. 22, 2013

Think organic produce is too expensive? Buy these fruits and veggies with the lowest levels of pesticide contamination instead

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Asparagus

Spring’s favourite vegetable, asparagus, is rich in good-for-you vitamins, and a great choice if you can’t afford to buy organic.

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Avocados

Avocados are a super-healthy way to add valuable nutrients and fibre (yes, and healthy fat!) to your diet.

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Cabbage

Incorporating this thick, sturdy-leafed cruciferous vegetable into your diet promises plenty of vitamins C and K. It also stores well, and is a bargain in the winter when more tender greens are harder to come by.

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Cantaloupe

Cantaloupe is high in potassium and vitamins A, C and B6. It’s also high in water content, making it filling.

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Eggplant

Eggplant is high in fibre, and a good source of vitamin K.

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Kiwi

One medium kiwi supplies more than a full day’s worth of vitamin C, packing even more than an orange, cup for cup.

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Grapefruit

Grapefruits are loaded with immune-boosting vitamins and antioxidants.

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Mushrooms

Many varieties of mushrooms contain good-for-your-bladder selenium and, like us, they produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. Oyster mushrooms are a good source of iron. Plus, they’re low in calories.

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Onions

Onions have incredible healing powers – including helping prevent blood clots, fighting cancer and boosting folate.

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Papayas

Papayas are non-acidic (so they’re good for soothing your stomach) but they are packed with vitamin C and beta-carotene (more than even orange and grapefruit), two antioxidants that may lower your risk of uterine cancer, according to a 2009 study by The Cancer Institute of New Jersey.

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Pineapples

The sweet and tart tropical fruit contain bromelain, an enzyme that improves digestion as well as helps to fight blood clots from forming. Pineapples can also help prevent swelling, a common ailment during the summer months.