Antioxidant Rich Foods

Oxygen is essential for our survival, but it is also from it that our bodies produce some toxic elements, called free radicals. They can harm our bodies by causing cells to oxidize, just like an apple when it is cut and in contact with air. Some factors such as pollution, smoking, excessive consumption of fats, alcohol, sugar, inflammatory or infectious processes, trauma and stress can influence the formation of free radicals.

To protect the body from the effects of free radicals, there are antioxidants, which preserve our health, delay aging, prevent and repair cellular damage caused by oxidation. Antioxidants can be found in many foods, especially green and dark leafy vegetables, red and purple fruits, tomatoes, olive oil, pulses and even teas. Learn more about these antioxidant rich foods.

Green and dark leafy vegetables

Vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, turnip greens, watercress, radish and cabbage are very rich in antioxidants and help to prevent breast cancer and other cancers. The antioxidants in dark leafy vegetables also help prevent heart disease. Parsley, oregano and basil are also rich in protective nutrients.

Red and Purple Fruits

Fruits such as blackberry, raspberry, cherry, strawberry, plum, jabuticaba and grape are rich in vitamins and fiber. They protect the body against cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Tomato

Tomato reduces free radicals by protecting cells, helping to prevent digestive disorders, cardiovascular disease and cancer. It also helps to control overweight and diabetes. It is great for controlling hypertension and has great results against infections. Another advantage is that tomatoes are low in calories.

Olive oil

Olive oil is a type of fat rich in antioxidants that should be consumed in greater quantities as it is healthier. It is advisable to use both to season the food as for the preparation of the dishes. Helps reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and maintain favorable levels of good cholesterol (HDL).

Legumes

Legumes are foods that provide good quality protein, many vitamins, minerals and fiber. They help in the functioning of the digestive tract and prevent various diseases.

How Antioxidants Work and Where to Get Them (March 2024)