Foods
High In Antioxidants Combat Free Radicals
Antioxidants are essential to
the body because they work to fight off excess free radicals, molecules
that harm the body and may cause cell damage. Some experts believe
that these free radicals and the damage they inflict can be associated
with the early stages of heart disease, cancer and other serious
illnesses. Foods high in antioxidants are important, since you can
become exposed to free radicals through normal bodily actions like
the burning of sugars for energy or the release of digestive enzymes.
Antioxidants can be found in vitamins like vitamin C, E and D, as
well as some minerals and flavonoids. Still, the best sources of
antioxidants are foods high in antioxidants like fruits, whole grains,
soy and vegetables. Some fruits and vegetables that are making the
list of foods high in antioxidants are beans, artichokes, and the
Russet potato. Also, nuts and spices like ground cloves, cinnamon
and oregano are making a surprising appearance on the list.
These are a few more of the foods high in the antioxidants list,
along with their benefits:
- Berries—these little fruits are jam-packed
with fiber, minerals, vitamins, and of course, antioxidants.
These foods are high one the antioxidants list because they
are thought to help prevent cancer, heart disease (blueberries,
raspberries and blackberries), carcinogens(strawberries) and
the beginning of memory problems.
- Broccoli—this vegetable, along with
cabbage and cauliflower, is known to help fight against cancer
and heart disease. Broccoli contains a compound called indole-3-carbinol,
an antioxidant that decreases the risk of breast cancer and
other cancers that affect women.
- Tomatoes—this delicious red fruit
is one of the foods that are high in antioxidants because it
is believed to promote a healthy mind while helping to prevent
cancer, macular degeneration, and cataracts. This is because
tomatoes contain lycopene, which is thought to be twice as powerful
as beta-carotene and help fight against lung, colon and breast
cancers.
Other foods high in the antioxidants list
are red grapes, spinach, garlic and carrots. Tea is also high on
the list. The best way to get a healthy portion of antioxidants
is through a diet of whole foods.
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