The Power of Antioxidants

We’ve all heard that antioxidants are good for your body, but how exactly do they benefit us? According to Dr. Eva Selhub, antioxidants help prevent health problems by attacking harmful molecules in our body called free oxygen radicals.  Free radicals are naturally occurring by-products of metabolic processes in our body. These molecules are dangerous because they contain an unpaired electron.  Free radicals want to complete the pair of electrons so they try to steal them from other healthy cells. Damage to the healthy cells can lead to problems such as cancer, heart disease, and immune disorders. Below is a list of substances that generates free radical formation.

Free Radical Stimulating Substances

• Fired foods

• Alcohol

• Tobacco smoke

• Pesticides

Antioxidants are important because they can neutralize free radicals by giving them the electron they want, thus preventing disease! Not only do antioxidants help prevent illnesses like cancer and heart disease, but it has also been proven to help with weight management, stress relief, and cognitive functioning.

Top Antioxidant Rich Foods

• Berries- Goji and Acai berries are the highest in antioxidants, but blueberries, blackberries, and cranberries still provide great benefits as well.

• Grapes- This fruit contains phytochemicals that help fight cancer and heart disease, so having that glass of red wine at dinner is better for your health than you think!

• Nuts- Not only are nuts antioxidant rich, but they are full of protein and healthy fats as well. Pecans have the largest amount of antioxidants followed by pistachios, walnuts, and almonds.

• Spinach- This leafy green is filled with carotenoids that can promote eye health and prevent blindness with old age.

• Sweet Potatoes- Regular white potatoes are filled with B and C vitamins, but sweet potatoes contain higher nutrient levels with the addition of vitamin A and Calcium.

• Chocolate- It’s a sweet treat that’s actually good for you! Steer away from chocolates with high sugar levels and try to consume dark chocolate instead.