Mar 21, 2022
BY: Kritika PushkarnaThey are the naturally occurring chemicals found in various foods that serve as the defense system against free radicals, which can actually damage cells.
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When there are high levels of free radicals, they can cause serious illnesses like cancer, heart diseases, and type 2 diabetes.
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There are several types of antioxidants like vitamin C, E, D & A, beta-carotene, lutein, carotenoids, lycopene, zeaxanthin, etc. that are found in fruits, vegetables, beans and legumes.
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From fruits and vegetables to nuts and even chocolate, there are several foods that are known to be rich in antioxidants and a must-have in your daily diet. Here are some of the antioxidant-rich foods.
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It’s a known fact that a good quality dark chocolate contains high levels of antioxidants and nutrients. The more cocoa a chocolate has, the more nutrient-dense it will be! Thus, take note of this fact and eat a bite of dark chocolate every day, but make sure you don’t over do.
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This nut is quite popular in Mexican and American cuisines, and is known be rich in antioxidants along with other minerals and healthy fats. However, they are high in calories and must be taken in moderation.
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Blueberries are known to be rich anthocyanins, which belong to a group of chemicals that have antioxidant properties. These berries are also low in calories and a great addition to the diet.
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Apart from being rich in fibre and protein, pinto beans are also quite heavy on antioxidants and are often mistaken for kidney beans. They have a plant flavonoid called kaempferol, which may help suppress cancer cell growth and reduce inflammation.
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These grapes are super-rich in anthocyanins and proanthocyanin, which can help protect a person from chronic diseases like cancer. It is one of these reasons, why red wines are considered by people living a long life.
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Low in calories, spinach is a one of the healthiest vegetables one can have daily. The antioxidants found in this leafy vegetable namely ‘zeaxanthin and lutein’ promote eye health while preventing you from ultraviolet rays damage.
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