What Foods Or Drinks Have Antioxidants?

Antioxidants are substances in food and drink that help to stop the oxidative process in cells which can lead to heart disease, cancer, diabetes and infection, according to the American Dietetic Association. So, if antioxidant-rich foods and drinks are not on your grocery list, make sure you consider putting them on.

Fruits

Certain fruits are higher in antioxidants than others. Fruit that is high in antioxidants include berries such as blackberries, raspberries and cranberries. According to the Harvard Medical School, blackberries have the highest amount of antioxidants per serving. Other fruits such as apples, pears and pineapples also have antioxidants. Have fresh fruit as a snack or with each of your meals. Make sure that you have several servings of fruit a day to meet your dietary needs.

Vegetables

Artichokes are high on the list of foods with antioxidants. In addition, spinach, red cabbage, and red and white potatoes are appropriate choices for antioxidant-rich foods. Vegetables are also high in fiber and in minerals and nutrients. Try putting these vegetables in your soup or stew. You can stir fry them or eat them in your salad. Beans also provide antioxidants; they are a healthy and low-fat protein source that sometimes get overlooked.

Nuts

Walnuts are second to blackberries on the top of the list of foods high in antioxidants, according to the Harvard Medical School. Other nuts that contain antioxidants include pistachios, pecans and hazelnuts. Nuts are a key source of protein and make a complementary addition to cereal or granola.

Oats

Surprisingly, oats contain antioxidants. Oat products include oatmeal, granola bars, and some breads. Oats are high in fiber, too, and serve well as a nutritious breakfast or snack. According to Mayo Clinic, oat-based products make a better source of antioxidants than foods derived from other grains.

Drinks

There are certain drinks that are higher in antioxidants. According to Mayo Clinic, these include green tea, red wine, coffee and some fruit juices. Drinking too much caffeine or alcohol is not recommended, so limit your coffee, tea and alcohol intake to one cup each per day. Grape juice and cranberry juice are popular choices for drinks high in antioxidants.