Top 10 Antioxidant Foods Worth Including in Your Menu

Over the past decade, antioxidants and superfoods have swept the health world after people realized that certain types of food are more nutritious and offer a variety of health benefits than others. In addition, these antioxidant-rich foods are also associated with reducing cell damage in the human body. So, what exactly are these...?Antioxidant foodsHow do they contribute to our health, and which ones are the best?

What are antioxidants?

Antioxidants are molecules found in our bodies or other substances (such as food) that prevent cell breakdown or damage. In the human body, the primary function of antioxidants is to inhibit free radicals (unstable atoms). Free radicals can cause oxidative damage to cells by inducing disease or accelerating aging.

Why are antioxidants so important?

Although our bodies contain natural antioxidants, modern life (such as pollution and ultraviolet radiation) leads to increased exposure to free radicals in the environment. This further depletes our natural antioxidants, and the remaining natural antioxidants are insufficient to combat the damage caused by unhealthy lifestyle habits such as smoking, stress, and poor diet. Therefore, we should eat more foods rich in nutrients and antioxidants to maintain our health and prevent disease.

10 Foods Rich in Antioxidants

blueberry

Blueberries have become a quintessential superfood thanks to the unforgettable benefits of this small berry. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and anthocyanins, blueberries are a powerful antioxidant, especially wild blueberries. Just one cup of blueberries contains 13,427 antioxidants. Further research has found that blueberries, when combined with their anthocyanins, help protect the cardiovascular system. Studies have also shown that blueberries may benefit the nervous system.

dark chocolate

Yes, believe it or not, this delicious food does have antioxidant benefits. Dark chocolate contains a high amount of cocoa (over 70%) and less sugar than regular chocolate. The flavonoids in dark chocolate act as antioxidants. Consuming it in small amounts may help stabilize blood pressure, cholesterol, and reduce inflammation.

love bite

Like blueberries, strawberries are rich in antioxidants and anthocyanins, the source of their vibrant pigments. Strawberries help reduce inflammation and protect the cardiovascular system. In addition, strawberries contain polyphenols, which aid in energy metabolism.

broccoli

Spinach is one of the dark green vegetables rich in nutrients and antioxidants. In particular, spinach contains zeaxanthin and lutein, which, in addition to protecting the eyes, can also prevent damage to the body from various ultraviolet rays.

beet

It's no surprise that sweet tea is considered a superfood due to its unique color. Sweet tea is rich in fiber, iron, potassium, folic acid, and antioxidants from beetroot pigments, which help reduce inflammation and maintain colon health and digestive disorders.

Walnut

Walnuts are one of the most nutritious nuts available and are often used in traditional Chinese medicine to improve brain health. Walnuts are rich in fiber, protein, polyphenols, and unsaturated fats, which may help improve memory. They also contain antioxidants associated with pain relief and preventing the formation of foreign cells, and may aid in weight loss.

green tea

Green tea has long been touted for its health benefits. It is a popular beverage in Hong Kong and across Asia. Its antibacterial properties are well-known, helping to reduce the risk of inflammation and chronic diseases. Furthermore, green tea contains antioxidants called catechins, which are associated with reducing and preventing infectious diseases.

Legumes

Legumes are a very healthy source of fiber and protein, and they also contain a large amount of antioxidants. For example, pinto beans contain an antioxidant called kaempferol, which has been linked to reduced kidney, lung, and bladder health.

Broccoli

Broccoli is highly nutritious and contains an antioxidant called phenolic resin. This antioxidant not only helps plants resist oxidative stress but also has the same effect on humans, and is associated with the prevention of inflammation and allergic reactions.

Elegant Bamboo

Artichoke (Bambusa textilis) is associated with heart and digestive health. Other studies have also linked artichoke to reducing LDL cholesterol and heart-related problems. Furthermore, steaming artichoke increases its antioxidant activity by 15 times, while boiling only increases it by 8 times.

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