Foods rich in antioxidants

Foods rich in antioxidants
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Antioxidants are substances that are present in certain types of food which combat the formation of free radicals. These are responsible for the ageing of cells and various diseases, including cancer. Our body alone cannot produce antioxidants, so it is essential we consume them daily through a balanced and nutritious diet. Do you know which foods are rich in antioxidants? This OneHowTo.com article will explain more.

Steps to follow:
1

Free radicals are electron molecules that have become unpaired from protons. This turns them into molecules that are very unstable and reactive. They try to steal the partner of another molecule in order to seek stability, leading it to also become a free radical.

Our body naturally produces free radicals for certain processes to function. However, when they begin to form in excess due to external factors such as smoking, drinking, pollution and diets lacking in nutrition, these radicals begin to affect the health of our body, causing diseases.

The likelihood of developing diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer's, diabetes and various heart diseases is increased by an excess of free radicals. For this reason, it is so important to consume antioxidants to prevent their formation and for staying healthy.

2

Amongst those foods that are rich in antioxidants , berries are the most noteworthy: strawberries, raspberries and blueberries. All provide the body with ellagic acid, an antioxidant that helps to fight cholesterol and chronic inflammation, as well as fighting free radicals.

3

Tomatoes are one of the most antioxidant-rich foods we can find. They are the only foodstuff that provides a large amount of lycopene which helps the body in preventing certain types of cancers, acting as a great ally for our health. They also contain carotenoids that convert into Vitamin A, one of the quintessential antioxidant nutrients.

4

The kiwi fruit is one of the most beneficial fruits that can be found, because it is a food rich in antioxidants. It provides vitamin C, ellagic acid and flavonoids that effectively fight free radicals and maintain a healthy immune system.

5

Although many people do not like it, garlic has been considered one of the healthiest ingredients for centuries. Nowadays, it is known to be rich in antioxidants, providing mainly Allicin which helps to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, sugar and cholesterol and prevent the formation of tumours. Without doubt, it is a powerful ingredient that should be added to our food.

6

Foods rich in Vitamin E such as olive oil, avocado, nuts or wheatgerm are also excellent sources of antioxidants, since this nutrient is one of the best ways to effectively protect our cells from free radicals.

7

Citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruit, lemons or mandarin oranges are an excellent alternative to protect our health when dealing with foods rich in antioxidants, vitamin C and hesperidin. These help our body to eliminate toxins effectively. For a citrus fruit based natural antioxidant food supplements, you can try Chyawanprash.

8

Also, we should not forget important ingredients such as meat (preferably lean meat), fish or cocoa, which contain one of the most important antioxidants that can be found: Coenzyme Q.

9

Other antioxidants, such as tannins, have become known for benefitting the heart. The main ingredients that contain tannins are grapes and red wine.

Others foods rich in antioxidants include:

  • Carrots, red peppers and bell peppers, rich in carotene
  • Broccoli, cabbage and spinach, high in vitamin C
  • Green tea with quercetin, isoflavonoids, catechins and polyphenols, which boost the metabolism

This article is merely informative, oneHOWTO does not have the authority to prescribe any medical treatments or create a diagnosis. We invite you to visit your doctor if you have any type of condition or pain.

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