What Are The Antioxidant Superfoods?

Antioxidant superfoods contain large amounts of antioxidants and other nutrients that are proven to improve body functions, reduce your risk of certain chronic diseases and improve overall health. Antioxidants are vitamins and minerals that protect against cell damage by free radicals, which are unstable molecules, notes the National Cancer Institute. The list of antioxidants includes vitamin C, A, E, beta-carotene and lycopene.

Berries

Berries are big on the antioxidant superfoods list. Berries contain high amounts of antioxidants and they are rich sources of fiber. Some antioxidant superfood berries include blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, currants and cherries. All of the berries are a rich source of vitamin C and other antioxidants. Blueberries get their color from anthrocyanins, which is a polyphenol that is a major contributor to blueberries' antioxidant activity. They are also rich in manganese, which helps to develop bones. Raspberries are not only packed with antioxidants, but they are also high in fiber. One cup of raspberries has 8 g of fiber, one-third of your daily requirement.

Crunchy Vegetables

Crunchy vegetables are rich in antioxidants and make great snack foods. Broccoli and cauliflower are antioxidant superfoods that make great finger food snacks. They are also loaded with appetite-suppressing fiber, which makes you feel full longer. Eating these crunchable superfoods not only helps keep weight off, they also help to detoxify possibly harmful heterocyclic amines, or HCAs, that are formed on charred or browned meats. Only three cups of these vegetables is enough protect against the potential cancer causing effects of HCAs, notes the National Institutes of Health. Other crunchy antioxidant super vegetables include kale, bok choy, broccoli rabe and cabbage.

Fish

Fish is another antioxidant superfood. Salmon, rainbow trout and sardines are just a few of the fresh fish choices that are loaded with antioxidants and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Pair up some fish and vegetables for a super boost of antioxidants and other healthy nutrients. Salmon and mackerel have anti-inflammatory properties as well as antioxidants and omega-3 fats. Eating fish is also a low calorie alternative to other meats, which have higher fat contents.

Herbs

Herbs are amazing superfoods, loaded with antioxidants, and only require small amounts to be effective. Fresh herbs give foods a spicy kick in both flavor and nutrition. Aromatic herbs such as flat-leaf parsley, mint, dill, cilantro, basil, oregano and tarragon are herb superfoods that may even protect against cancer or high cholesterol, according to the National Institutes of Health. Herbs can be chopped and mixed into a salad dressing, used to sauté foods and can be used in summer drinks. Some herbs not only have antioxidants, but are also antimicrobial, offering protection against E coli and salmonella.