Antioxidants help to prevent health conditions like cancer, heart diseases, and many more by neutralizing the harmful effects of oxidation and cellular damage in the body. Antioxidants are also known for their ability to slow down the effects of aging. Therefore, it is necessary to make foods rich in antioxidants a part of your daily diet. Some of the best antioxidant rich foods that you can include in your diet are listed below.
Broccoli
This cruciferous vegetable is a rich source of vitamin C, minerals and calcium. The antioxidants present in broccoli are known for their ability to fight and prevent various types of cancer. You can either use broccoli in a number of recipes or consume it raw or steamed.
Carrots
Carrots are fully packed with beta-carotene, which is a very powerful antioxidant. Beta-carotene helps to lower the risk of heart diseases and cancer. It can also be helpful in slowing down the progression of arthritis. Consuming cooked carrots will provide you more antioxidants than when eaten raw. You can use carrots in various recipes, eat them raw or steam them.
Spinach
Spinach contains good amount of the antioxidant lutein, which helps to protect your vision. Regular consumption of spinach helps to prevent cataracts and vision loss. It is also known to guard against heart disease. You can eat raw spinach or just cook it lightly.
Garlic
Garlic is among the most powerful sources of antioxidants. The iodine, selenium, zinc, calcium, and multivitamin that it contains have numerous benefits on your health. Garlic can be used as an antibiotic and it can also reduce blood pressure and cholesterol. Moreover, it also has cancer fighting and preventing properties. You can consume raw garlic or add it to various recipes.
Grapes
Eating fresh grapes or having grape juice will provide your body with antioxidants and also help to prevent cancer. To get most amounts of antioxidants, choose dark colored grapes over the light colored ones.
Berries
Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are loaded with antioxidants. Berries help to prevent heart diseases and cancer. You can add these berries in smoothies or cereals.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are filled with lycopene, which is one of the most powerful antioxidants. Eating tomatoes on a regular basis can help to prevent cancer. You can eat them raw, use them as base of curries and sauces, or have tomato soup.
Green Tea
Green tea contains catechin, which is a polyphenol that helps to oxidize fat, reduce cholesterol, and prevent cancer and heart diseases. Green tea is also beneficial for people wanting to lose weight. To get most of its benefits, you should consume green tea thrice a day.
Nuts
Nuts such as pecans, hazelnuts, etc. are very high in antioxidants. You can use these nuts in various recipes or simply snack on them whenever you feel hungry.
Legumes
Legumes like kidney beans, soybeans, and pinto beans are some other good antioxidant foods. You can add legumes to a variety of recipes or season them with herbs.
Whole Grains
Consuming whole grains can help to prevent cancer and also strengthen the immune system. They are also known to slow down the development of arthritis and Alzheimer’s disease. Cereals and breads are the best whole grain sources.
Some other foods that are rich in antioxidants include cranberries, red apples, prunes, black plums, spices, potatoes, cherries, dried fruits, kiwi fruit, and grapefruits. Having antioxidant rich foods in your daily diet will help you to live a healthier life.