Foods High in Antioxidants
Antioxidant has become a household word. Everyone has heard of antioxidants but does anyone really know what they are and which foods are high in antioxidants?
A short definition I have noted down is that antioxidants are "substances that protect cells from being damaged by oxidation". Oxidation in the body is caused by free radicals, which are molecules. These free radicals cause damage to the cells in the body and eventually cause disease and aging.
The good news is that there are a number of tasty foods which are high in antioxidant content. Thankfully for fussy eaters, this includes a lot of very appealing foods, not just tasteless ones!
Probably my favorite food high in antioxidants is berries. Blueberries in particular are extremely nutritious, although raspberries, blackberries and strawberries are all excellent sources.
Berries contain vitamins and minerals as well as fibre and of course, antioxidants. There is also another ingredient in berries - proanthocyanidins. It is believed that proanthocyanidins can assist in the prevention of cancer and heart related diseases.
Other food high in antioxidant agents are broccoli and carrots. Yes, your mother was spot on when she told you to eat your vegies. And you may stay younger looking for longer because of it!
Along with broccoli being a food high in antioxidants, other related foods include cauliflower and brussel sprouts are also antioxidant rich.
The best way to cook vegetables to ensure their antioxidants and vitamins stay intact is to steam or microwave them. Never overcook vegetables as this zaps out the powerful nutrients.
There are so many benefits of eating food high in antioxidants. On the surface, there are your looks. People want to look young and stay younger looking for longer. Antioxidant-rich foods promote skin health and anti-aging. This means less wrinkles and more alive looking skin.
Under the surface, antioxidants protect your insides as well. They are disease fighters and preventers, with various forms of cancers and heart disease being scientifically proven to show improvement (or prevention) when a diet of foods high in antioxidants is adhered to.
Overall there is no reason why you should not be incorporating food high in antioxidants into your diet everyday. Berries, vegetables, garlic, tea and soy are just some of the delicious antioxidant rich foods available to help you live a longer and healthier life.