What are Antioxidants?

You may have heard that you should eat blueberries and pomegranates for antioxidants.  But what are antioxidants?  And why should you eat them?  And what other foods have them?

What are antioxidants and why do you need them?

Simply put, antioxidants neutralize free radicals, compounds that cause oxidation in the body.  Oxidation is a natural process that, when occurring in excess, contributes to illness and premature aging.  Factors that contribute to oxidative stress are smoking, environmental pollutants, alcohol, high blood sugar, bacterial and viral infection, and toxins.

What foods have antioxidants?

Antioxidants are highest in plant based, whole foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts & seeds and legumes, as well as spices and herbs.  So the best way to insure an adequate intake of antioxidants is to eat a wide variety of these foods daily.  There are certain superstars that are especially rich sources of antioxidants and should be eaten regularly.

Antioxidant super foods

·      Berries

·      Green Tea

·      Pomegranates

·      Black beans

·      Dark chocolate

·      Purple grapes

·      Kale

·      Sweet potatoes

·      Cinnamon

·      Acai

 Check out my Instagram page for lots of ideas on ways to eat more antioxidants. And for an antioxidant packed dish, try this Kale and Blueberry Salad.