Antioxidants protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are potentially harmful molecules. When enough of these free radicals accumulate, they can cause oxidative stress that may damage your DNA and other important cell structures. Chronic levels of oxidative stress can increase your risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Antioxidants are found in many foods, and a diet rich in antioxidants can help fight this oxidative stress! Here are the top 5 foods with high antioxidants that are good for your health:
1. Blueberries
While blueberries might be low in calories, they are one of the top foods with high antioxidants! In fact, several studies suggest blueberries contain the highest amount of antioxidants among all commonly consumed fruits and vegetables. Blueberries are rich in a type of antioxidants called anthocyanins, which help to reduce risk factors for heart disease. Research from test tube and animal studies have also shown the antioxidants in blueberries may postpone the decline in brain function associated with aging.
2. Dark Chocolate
If you are a chocolate lover, you will be delighted to know dark chocolate is delicious and nutritious! Generally, the higher the cocoa content, the more antioxidants the chocolate contains. Since dark chocolate has more cocoa than regular chocolate, it has more antioxidants and minerals. These antioxidants have been linked to health benefits including reduced inflammation and lowered risk factors for heart disease. In fact, studies have shown dark chocolate may help to raise the levels of “good” HDL cholesterol and prevent “bad” LDL cholesterol from becoming oxidized.
3. Pecans
Another one of the foods with high antioxidants are pecans, which are also a good source of healthy fats and minerals. Due to their high level of antioxidants, pecans can help to raise blood antioxidant levels and lower bad cholesterol. Although pecans are a fantastic source of healthy fats, they are also high in calories. Therefore, it is important to eat pecans in moderation to avoid the consumption of too many calories.
4. Strawberries
Some of the most popular berries in the world are strawberries, which can be attributed to their sweet flavor! They are a significant source of vitamin C and anthocyanins, creating their red color. In addition to being high in antioxidants, strawberries have fiber, magnesium, phosphorus, folate, potassium, and calcium.
5. Red Cabbage
Red cabbage is yet another one of the foods with high antioxidants, and it has been shown to contain more than 4 times the amount of antioxidants of regular cooked cabbage! Just like strawberries, the red color comes from the high content of anthocyanins. Red cabbage has other nutritional value as well since it is rich in vitamin C, K, and A. Vitamin C functions as an antioxidant in the body and can help strengthen your immune system.
Now you know some of the top foods with high antioxidants, you can plan your meals accordingly for a healthy lifestyle! At Mac’s Pharmacy, we are dedicated to improving your health and well-being. Learn more about how we can assist you with all of your pharmaceutical needs!
