11 Foods Rich in Antioxidants You Need to Include in Your Diet?
Did your wellness specialist suggest you to consume foods rich in antioxidants? Or did your friend talk to you about antioxidants and their benefits? If you are not clear and want to know more about antioxidants and how they are beneficial for your body, read on!
What are Antioxidants?
Antioxidants are the compounds that are naturally produced in the body or found in certain fruits and vegetables. They act as tiny bodyguards to protect the cells from damage, which can lead to premature ageing and diseases. Want to add antioxidant-rich foods to your diet? We’ve got a list of 5 natural sources with high antioxidant content.
What are the 11 antioxidant-rich foods?
1. Walnuts
Walnut is one of the nutritious foods that provides healthy fats, fibre, vitamins and minerals. It has almost twice as many antioxidant polyphenols than other common nuts. It protects the body from the damaging chemicals that cause diseases.
2. Blueberries
Blueberries are widely popular, and many add it to their diet in different forms like cakes, yoghurts, milk shakes, and more. This superfood is loaded with many vitamins and minerals that are known to strengthen the immune system. It also contains phytochemicals that help protect against cancer and heart diseases.
3. Strawberries
One of the most popular berries on the planet, strawberries are a rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants. These berries contain anthocyanin, an antioxidant that is thought to help reduce the risk of heart diseases.
4. Kidney Beans
Kidney Beans are a high-octane source of antioxidants. They are rich in complex carbohydrates, minerals, proteins and vitamins, which help build your muscles, control blood sugar level and lower cholesterol.
5. Guava
This tangy, sweet fruit has loads of antioxidants, vitamin C, potassium, and fibre. This miracle fruit helps control free radicals, lower blood sugar level and boost your heart health.
6. Dark chocolates;
Dark chocolates and cocoa are high in antioxidant with flavanols and polyphenols.
Harvard study confirmed it is also good for heart. Make sure it must be an 80% dark chocolate.
7. Broccoli;
Broccoli is one of the best sources of antioxidants like carotenoids lutein, zeaxanthin and beta-carotene also one of the vegetables which provides high protein.
8. Cherries
Cherries are a rich source of antioxidant anthocyanin that boosts energy.
Eat fresh cherries for maximum benefit.
9. Carrots
Carrots are full of beta-carotene antioxidants and also rich in potassium.
It is good for keeping skin healthy and young.
10. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are packed with three types of antioxidants – Lycopene, Vitamin C and Vitamin A.
It helps in removing toxins.
11. Green tea
It contains large amounts of a catechin called EGCG.
Catechins are natural antioxidants that help prevent cell damage.
EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate) is one of the most powerful compounds in green tea.
Never compromise when it comes to your health. For those who are diabetic from the above list any berries can be consumed as they have low glycemic index. Brocoli, walnuts, kidney beans, tomato too can be consumed by diabetics.
Antioxidants are very effective to protect your body from many chronic diseases. You can have all or any of the above antioxidant-rich fruits or vegetables according to your health condition. You can also take suggestions from one of the best dieticians in Bangalore and build a customised diet based on your health and lifestyle.
In my clinical cases, I have seen significant improvement in the conditions of the patients who were put on antioxidant rich diet for treatment of lifestyle diseases. As result, I was able to reduce medicinal dosage faster than expected.
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