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At every point in time, the human body is populated with antioxidants as well as free radicals. Some antioxidants are created within the body itself, while other vital antioxidants must be obtained by eating foods rich in these substances.
Free radicals are byproducts of cellular reactions in the human body. The liver, for instance, generates free radicals for the purpose of detoxifying the body. White blood cells take charge by transporting free radicals to destroy damaged cells, viruses, and bacteria; critical for good health.
But when a particular type of oxygen molecule roams freely in the body, it plays a significant role in bringing oxidative damage as a result of the formation of free radicals. This usually happens when the level of antioxidants in the body is less than that of free radicals.
When oxidation brings about oxidative damage to the body, it results in:
Exposure to toxins, poor nutrition as well as other factors are primarily responsible low levels of antioxidants in the human body. This is why it’s crucial for you to eat a wide variety of foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals which generate beneficial antioxidants.
We’ve made a list of seven of the best antioxidant foods that you should always include in your diet:
Spinach is well known as an excellent source of vitamins and minerals as well as iron. Better yet, spinach also ranks very high on any antioxidant-rich list of foods. As a dark green leafy veg, spinach is loaded with phytochemicals such as kaempferol, which helps to dilate blood vessel and build antioxidants.
Dietician and nutritionists have voted artichokes as one of the best foods when looking for antioxidant properties. They are delicious when steamed, but if you don’t like to eat them plain, you can always prepare light dips with mint, dill or even a chili pepper butter.
Beans are another excellent source of antioxidants. Beans have a wide range of important nutrients including vitamin C, calcium selenium, folate and zinc. Throw some in soups or stews or bring beans salads into you lunch menus.
The chemicals present in berries give them their rich and vibrant colors and also contain a plethora of healing antioxidants. Blueberries are at the top of the list of berries rich in the substances that inhibit oxidation in the human body. Other berries like raspberries and strawberries contain ellagic acid which is another important phytochemical.
Do you need more reasons to eat your favorite dark chocolate? Dark chocolate is loaded with flavonols which are antioxidants that not only reduce diabetes risk, but also bring down blood pressure.
Avoid chocolates with added sugar and milk since they have low amounts of beneficial antioxidants.
This versatile vegetable is popular for its cancer-fighting antioxidant properties. Try adding broccoli to a stir fry or blanch it and put it in a salad topped with nuts and olive oil.
This edible bulb helps to combat cancer and also protects against prostate and lung cancer. You can enjoy the best of onions when you consume them in raw form (hold your nose). Cooking them at high temperatures significantly lowers their health benefits. So, do not overcook onions when preparing your meals.
Finally, peptides of all kinds are also known to scavenge free radicals in the body. DeepMarine Collagen peptides are an excellent and easy way to increase your antioxidants levels. One or two scoops in a morning smoothie has tremendous benefits in terms of reducing oxidative cell damage throughout the body.
