1. Antioxidants for Prevention and Health
Antioxidants are valuable assets in the prevention of disease. These compounds combat free radicals and prevent cellular damage. This process helps to slow aging and aids in the prevention of some cancers, heart disease and stroke. In addition, antioxidants have been found to support healthy immune function and reduce the risk of infection.
2. Get Your Vitamin E
One primary antioxidant is vitamin E. Most often found in oils this vitamin aids in the prevention of cancers, heart disease and stroke. Vitamin E can be found in a variety of foods including nuts, seeds, whole grains, vegetable oils and fish oils. Eat a handful of nuts for an afternoon snack, have salmon for lunch and top your salad with sunflower seeds to pack plenty of disease fighting vitamin E into your diet.
3. Don't Forget Your Fruit
Vitamin C has long been associated with fighting the common cold. While its role in keeping you from getting sick is a topic of long term debate, vitamin C is recognized as a valuable antioxidant. This vitamin is abundant in citrus fruits such as oranges and limes, and can also be found in cantaloupe, kiwi and strawberries. Cabbage, spinach and broccoli also contain vitamin C. Adding a few servings of fruits and vegetables to your day will ensure your body has the vitamin C it needs for antioxidant action.
4. Boost Your Antioxidants with Beta-carotene
Beta-carotene serves two purposes when it comes to health. First, it is recognized as an important antioxidant and is associated with cancer prevention, anti-aging and a healthy immune system. In addition, beta-carotene helps to provide the body with vitamin A which is important for vision and cell growth. Beta-carotene is available from many food sources of both animal and plant origin. Animal sources include egg yolks, milk and butter. Plant sources include spinach, carrots, squash, broccoli, yams, tomatoes, cantaloupe, peaches and whole grains. Strive to increase your fruit and vegetable intake and consider a few eggs a week to supply the body with plenty of beta-carotene.
5. Treat Yourself and Get Antioxidants Too
Antioxidants can be found outside the typical food groups you might think of when considering a healthy diet. Dark chocolate contains antioxidants which may help prevent diseases such as cancer. Flavonoids are the compounds providing antioxidant activity and they naturally occur in chocolate. For the best heart healthy benefits, choose dark chocolate. This type has less added fat and sugar and maintains more of its original healthy components. Red wine enjoyed in moderation can also increase your antioxidant intake through the presence of flavonoids. Limit consumption to one drink per day for women and two for men to increase health benefits and lower any negative health effects. In addition, a comforting cup of green or black tea also provides the body with healthy antioxidants.
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