Antioxidants play a significant role in our diet. They have what is scientifically called ORAC or Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity.
Now, what does this mean?
Simply put, they stabilise the cells in our body called free radicals. These free radicals are unstable because they possess one less electron than normal. This can end up harming our body and opening it up to a variety of diseases. However, antioxidants provide these free radicals with electrons so that they become stabilised and function normally again.
Clearly, it’s a crucial task.
So what can you eat to up your antioxidant intake?
Thankfully, that isn’t too hard because some fruits and veggies will give you the nutrients you need. Read on, and you can pick out your favourite antioxidant rich food to add to your diet!
Fruits High in Antioxidants:
1. Blueberries:
These are the number one source of antioxidants. In just one cup, you end up getting ten times the body’s daily antioxidant requirement. So, they prevent high cholesterol, age-related diseases and even cancer. Moreover, they are incredibly delicious and are used to make yummy smoothies in the morning.
2. Grapes:
Or more specifically, red grapes! These are another fantastic source of antioxidants. The skin mainly contains resveratrol, a type of antioxidant that specialises in preventing cancer. So, you should start adding it to your salad. Read about 10 fruits that boost your immunity system.
3. Strawberries:
Who doesn’t love those bright crimson fresh strawberries. They have the ability to refresh the body like no other! What else do they have? Anthocyanins, antioxidants that protect us against cardiovascular diseases. There’s another reason to eat more strawberries. Learn how to grow fruit tree orchard.
4. Plums:
The ones richest in antioxidants? Those would be the black plums. They have phenols which can fight against tissue inflammation, DNA breakdown and cell deterioration. Grab a whole plum on your way to the office and your day will begin on a healthy note!
5. Cherries:
The little cherries are now taking the healthy eating world by storm! They contain flavonoids named isoquercitrin and quercitrin, which slow down the ageing process immensely. They also have Quercitrin which is probably the most potent cancer-fighting antioxidant known.
Vegetables High in Antioxidants:
1. Spinach:
We need some leafy greens on this list and spinach is more than up to the task. It contains beta-carotene, in fact, 3,600 IU of it! This antioxidant specifically fights heart diseases and age-related diseases. A perfect ingredient for a breakfast smoothie!
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2. Beets:
Thinking of going on a detox diet? Then you need to add some beets to your day! They contain a powerful antioxidant called betalain, which is a natural fungicide and prevents inflammation in the body. What more, you can go either sweet or savoury with this ingredient.
Learn how to grow beetroot and buy beetroot seeds for your kitchen garden.
3. Kale:
This excellent source of beta-carotene is a combination of lutein and zeaxanthin. It is also rich in vitamins and cancer-fighting antioxidants.
4. Brussels Sprouts:
These close cousins of Broccoli have a significant amount of bitter sulforaphane and isothiocyanates. Both these compounds detoxify the body from cancer causing substances.
5. Alfalfa Sprouts:
These tiny sprouts are a powerhouse of beta-carotene and an excellent source of Vitamin E. Thus if you wish to have healthy hair, nails, gums, bones and glands start consuming these now.
So, with this list, you’re well on our way to adopting a healthier diet! The best way to go about this is to try and grow some of these on your own. Now that will be a truly rewarding journey.
So, check out ugaoo.com for what you’ll need to get started.
