Scientists believe that foods rich in antioxidants prevent damage from molecules called free radicals. "If you increase the consumption of foods high in antioxidants, research indicates you'll protect your body from the damage from these free radicals," says Dr. Ronald L. Prior, research chemist for the USDA, who conducted the study that produced the list. He's also a physician at the Arkansas Children's Nutritional Center.

Along with sticking to the USDA's recommendation of five servings a day of fruits and vegetables, keep a copy of the list of super-charged foods (see below) in your wallet or purse for trips to the grocery store. If you forget it, think color -- the brighter the better. Often, the foods with vivid colors -- especially reds, blues, and purples -- are high in antioxidants.

The top 20, from highest to lowest, are:

1. Small red beans (dried)
2. Wild blueberries
3. Red kidney beans
4. Pinto beans
5. Blueberries (cultivated)
6. Cranberries
7. Artichokes (cooked)
8. Blackberries
9. Prunes
10. Raspberries
11. Strawberries
12. Red Delicious apples
13. Granny Smith apples
14. Pecans
15. Sweet cherries
16. Black plums
17. Russet potatoes (cooked)
18. Black beans (dried)
19. Plums
20. Gala apples