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You may have heard a lot about antioxidants and their potential health benefits. Consuming a diet rich in antioxidants may help to defend your body against several diseases. It’s important to understand that antioxidants prevent your body from undergoing damage caused by free radicals. If free radicals accumulate in the body, they may cause oxidative stress, which may increase the risk of developing serious health issues such as cancer, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses, as noted by a study published in December 2016 in the Journal of Nutritional Science.
Before knowing the source of antioxidants, one should understand the types that exist. First of all, they are classified into water-soluble and fat-soluble. Water-soluble antioxidants work to fight free radicals present in blood plasma, while the fat-soluble ones help to fight the free radicals that are present in cell membranes. Besides, antioxidants are also present in vitamins and minerals, including protein. Phytochemicals like quercetin, lycopene, flavonoids and lutein also contain a significant amount of antioxidants. And all these sources are thought to boost your overall health.
Now, you must be thinking, where do you get them from? So look no more. Here are some top antioxidant rich foods:
The health benefits of dark chocolate are derived from flavonoids, which are responsible for its antioxidant action. Dark chocolate has also been observed to reduce the amount of LDL (bad) cholesterol in the body.
Red cabbage, also known as purple cabbage, contains a good mix of vitamins and minerals, including folate, which is essential for pregnant women. They are also rich in vitamin C, which acts as an antioxidant that helps with protection against heart diseases, certain cancers, and vision loss.
Artichokes are high in antioxidants and are extremely nutritious; that’s because they provide numerous health benefits. What’s more, artichokes are also high in fibre and loaded with vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, K, folate, phosphorus, and magnesium.
Spinach is the first thing that comes to mind, when you’re asked to add some greens to your plate. The low-calorie veggie has a good amount of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins that will keep your overall health in check.
Blueberries are yummy and packed with several nutrients, which is what makes them one of the most popular antioxidant-rich foods. They may help protect cells from damage and lower inflammation, because of the vitamins and minerals they contain.
Broccoli is a powerhouse of vitamin, minerals, fibre, and antioxidants. It contains flavonoids that help to recycle vitamin C and supplement it with carotenoids such as lutein and beta carotene. Altogether, they help to fight free radicals and oxidative stress.
Purple grapes are relatively low in calories, and one of the most popular fruits. They are a storehouse of numerous healthy phytonutrients such as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. These nutrients are especially good for your immune system, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease and cancer.
Beans offer a healthy source of plant-based protein and an antioxidant called kaempferol, which is found in considerable amounts. They are helpful in the
prevention of cancer and chronic inflammation.
Now you know why antioxidants are crucial for your health. So, add these antioxidant rich foods to your diet, and stay happy and healthy!
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