Antioxidants have the power to protect you from disease and slow the aging process, as they fight the free radicals in your body that can harm your cells. If your antioxidant levels are low, oxidative stress can occur, making you susceptible to many illnesses including heart disease and cancer. Therefore, in order to keep your body healthy and your immune systems strong, you must consume an abundance of antioxidants on a daily basis. These powerhouses can be found in many fruits and vegetables, and common antioxidants include vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, beta-carotene, flavonoids and polyphenols. Below are some foods that contain antioxidants and can benefit your health:
1. Berries
These juicy fruits not only taste good, but they help fight diseases. Blueberries might be tiny in size, but the health benefits they deliver are enormous. They can boost your cognitive function while strengthening your immunity. Blackberries, strawberries, cranberries and raspberries are also rich in antioxidants. Add these berries to your breakfast, and you'll get your day off to a very good start!
2. Artichokes
You may not have realized it, but artichokes are full of antioxidants and deliver a great deal of vitamins to your body. To benefit from this vegetable, add artichoke hearts to your salad or use them as a topping on your pizza.
3. Red Grapes and Red Wine
Grapes are a great source of antioxidants, but go for the ones with the dark skin. These are full of heart healthy flavonoids and polyphenols, as is red wine. However, don't think you can polish off a bottle and fill your body with extra antioxidants. In order to reap the benefits of red wine, you must limit your consumption.
4. Beans
Beans are very good for you, as they're not only full of fiber, but antioxidants as well. Red beans contain the highest concentration of antioxidants.
5. Carrots
Carrots, and other orange fruits and vegetable, contain beta-carotene, which helps your body produce vitamin A and fight cancer. Be sure to add this color to your diet!
6. Apples
Apples make the perfect snack; they satisfy your sweet tooth, and they deliver vitamins and antioxidants which can keep you healthy. Red delicious apples contain the highest amount of antioxidants.
7. Potatoes
You don't have to feel guilty about indulging in potatoes, because you're doing your body a favor by doing so. Bake up an antioxidant-rich russet potato and add it to your dinner--just don't load it up with butter and sour cream!
8. Dark Chocolate
The rumors are true! Dark chocolate contains powerful antioxidants and can lower your blood pressure. However, be sure to consume this treat in moderation and only go for the dark varieties. Milk and white chocolate do not deliver the same benefits!
While nothing can guarantee the prevention of cancer or other illnesses, by consuming a diet rich in antioxidants, you are putting up a fight against these diseases. You owe it to your body to do everything in your power to keep it healthy, so indulge in some antioxidant-rich foods today!
