Why should we make anti-oxidants a part of our diet plan and what are these antioxidants? In simple words, they are compounds found in foods and produced in our body. They help defend our cells from damage caused by molecules called free radicals.
Now we won’t get into the science of free radicals and what they do. All you need to know at this point is that they are harmful molecules that accumulate and lead to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress results in acne, breakouts, chronic diseases such as type -2 diabetes and heart diseases. So it’s best to keep the free radical count to the lowest.
Lucky for us, a lot of common and delicious food items can help us out. Having foods rich in anti-oxidants help increase your blood antioxidant levels, help fight the oxidative stress and reduce the risk of these diseases.
If you’re a chocolate lover like 99% population of this world, you’re in luck. Dark chocolate is nutritious, delicious and one of the best sources of antioxidants. What you must remember before buying chocolate is that higher the cocoa content, the more antioxidants it contains.
Blueberries, known as the powerhouse of anti-oxidants, help reduce inflammation and help reduce the risk of heart diseases.
Kale, one of the most nutritious greens is rich in multiple vitamins. It helps maintain bone health, reduce inflammation and help in better cellular function.
Beans, especially red beans are known to be a great source of fiber, but did you know they are one of the best vegetable sources for anti-oxidants.Pinto beans particularly contain an antioxidant called Kaempferol. This antioxidant has multiple health benefits such as suppressed cancer growth and reduced chronic inflammation.
Raspberries and strawberries are also rich in anti-oxidants. Raspberries in particular help fight inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and gout
Apples as they say, keep the doctors away. Rightly so, as apples are full of anti-oxidants they help protect the blood vessels.
Along with food items certain herbs and spices also have anti-oxidants. The top most are cinnamon, cumin and basil. Other anti-oxidant rich herbs include green tea, garlic and cayenne pepper. Consuming each of these in tea or some other food item should be your aim.
Yes, there are many dietary supplements out there in the market for anti-oxidants, however, we’d suggest you find them the old fashioned way. Taking some daily through your diet can prove to be a lot more beneficial than any supplements as firstly they are 100% natural, secondly these food items contain not just antioxidants, but also multiple vitamins and minerals necessary for our body. Just munching on a handful of Goji berries daily or having a cup of green tea daily can prove to be extremely beneficial for your hair, skin and all internal organs.
