Try These 7 Top Antioxidant-Rich Foods

Eating antioxidant-rich food is the newest health trend. Antioxidants seem to be everywhere, in cereals, chocolate, and even in skincare products, according to Forbes. But before you jump on the antioxidant bandwagon, you should know exactly what antioxidants are and why they are so good for you.

Antioxidants are naturally occurring compounds that are found mostly in plants that can help regulate body functions as well as protecting you from free radicals. These are unstable molecules that can produce oxidative stress that could damage cell tissue and increase the risk of chronic diseases.

Antioxidants also may offer other health benefits like helping to lower cholesterol, fighting inflammation, and boosting your immunity. It’s no wonder people are singing the praise of antioxidants. Here are seven of the top antioxidant-rich foods.

Berries

Blueberries are packed full of antioxidants and nutrients. They are so good for you, that they are known as a superfood. Blueberries contain anthocyanin – this gives the berries their blue color – and polyphenol antioxidants.

An analysis of several studies that checked botanicals for antioxidant capacity found that blueberries contained the most antioxidants of commonly consumed fruits and vegetables.

Strawberries and raspberries also contain anthocyanin and other  antioxidants. The darker the berry, according to Healthline, the better it is for you.

Dark Chocolate

Did you know that eating chocolate is actually good for your health? That’s because dark chocolate contains more antioxidants than eating berries.

A study evaluated the effects of a diet high in cocoa powder and found that eating dark chocolate could positively affect heart health. That’s because the antioxidants found in cocoa have been linked to reduced risks of heart disease by aiding in lowering blood pressure and by raising the levels of HDL – good cholesterol – and lowering LDL or  bad cholesterol, according to Healthline.

Garlic

Garlic contains very high levels of allicin which is known to be one of the top antioxidants in the world, reported Forbes. Garlic also contains other antioxidants including allyl cysteine and allyl disulfide that can help reduce oxidation. This also contributes to heart health by helping to reduce blood pressure and lowering LDL cholesterol. The antioxidants in garlic may also help to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia according to a study published in The Journal of Nutrition

Pecans and Other Tree Nuts

Pecans, walnuts, and chestnuts have the highest content of antioxidants when it comes to tree nuts, according to Forbes. Chestnuts contain ellagic acid and gallic acid – polyphenol compounds – that could reduce inflammation and lower oxidation in your cells. Walnuts and pecans are full of vitamin E and can actually increase antioxidant levels in your blood according to a study published in Science Direct.

Artichokes

Artichokes are not only delicious, they have medicinal properties too, according to Healthline. Artichokes are a good source of minerals, fiber, and polyphenol antioxidants, especially chlorogenic acid. A 2015 study found that the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits of chlorogenic acid may reduce the risk of some chronic diseases including  type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers.

Kale and Spinach

Kale is one of the most nutritious greens you can eat. Rich in vitamins A,K, and C, it also contains antioxidants. The red varieties of kale contain twice as many antioxidants as the green. Spinach, another green leafy vegetable, is also chock full of antioxidants, according to Medical News Today. Two of these antioxidants, lutein and zeaxanthin, may promote eye health and help to prevent damage from UV rays.

Beets

This root vegetable is a great source of fiber, potassium, folate, iron, and antioxidants. Beets contain a group of antioxidants called betalains, that give beets their bright red color, according to Northwestern Medicine’s Healthbeat. Beets are also associated with a lower cancer risk, liver health, and may lower inflammation.