According to HDLighthouse.org, a site dedicated to Huntington 's disease, a diet rich in antioxidants holds promise in delaying the onset and progression of Huntington's disease. Antioxidants are molecules that scoop up free radicals in the blood. Energy produced in the mitochondria of cells subsequently produce free radicals in the process. Free radicals are an oxygen molecule with only one electron instead of two. This means that this molecule scavenges around for other molecules to bind with. Usually, antioxidants bind with free radicals and render them harmless. As people age, they have fewer antioxidants to take care of the free radicals, which can do extensive damage. This damage is called oxidative stress. Oxidative stress leads to cell death, particularly in the brain.
Fruits
Fruits that are high in antioxidants include cranberries, blueberries and blackberries. Most berries contain a high level of vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. Vitamin C can protect DNA and RNA from damage by free radicals. Also high in antioxidants are prunes, raspberries, strawberries, red delicious, gala and Granny Smith apples, sweet cherries and plums. Eating five to six servings of fruit daily can provide the body with critical antioxidants that may slow the progression of Huntington 's disease.
Vegetables
Red kidney beans, pinto beans and artichokes rank high in the number of antioxidants per serving, according to HDLighthouse.org. Five to six servings a day of vegetables can provide the body with significant amounts of vitamin B6. This vitamin plays an important role in cognition and brain function, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. HDLighthouse.org also says that russet potatoes and black beans are high in antioxidants.
Nuts and Spices
According to HDLighthouse.org, certain nuts and spices have high antioxidant concentrations, including pecans, walnuts and hazelnuts. Ground cloves, cinnamon and oregano are also rated high in antioxidants. HDLighthouse.org states that the concentration of antioxidants in the listed foods does not necessarily reflect their health benefit, which depends on how the body converts, absorbs and uses the antioxidants.
