Recently, the media has been buzzing about the word ‘antioxidant’, but what exactly does it mean and how can it benefit your health?
Explore the nutritional value you can’t afford to miss out on in this week’s feature of The Weekly Buzz.
What Exactly Are Antioxidants?
To fully understand what antioxidants are, let’s talk free radicals. A free radical is an unstable molecule missing an electron that is very reactive. It will then try to steal electrons from neighboring molecules thus creating more free radicals…not chill. This leads to potentially damaging tissues and organs in your body…not good right?
Free radicals are one of the by-products of your life-sustaining metabolic process. Most diseases such as cancer, Parkinson’s, cataracts, arthritis, fatigue, and heart disease all result in some free radical action.
Thankfully, antioxidants are here to save the day. By giving free radicals the electron they are scavenging for, they no longer have to steal another one from a neighbor molecule. This means no damage to tissues or other organs.
Where Can You Get Antioxidants?
Your body naturally produces them, but you can also get a sustainable amount from consuming antioxidant-rich foods. You can also avoid foods that lead to the production of free radicals such as fast foods, hydrogenated oils (margarine, vegetable oils, packaged foods), and saturated fats (red meats, dairy).
Vitamin C, Spirulina, and Turmeric also contain high amounts of antioxidants and are easy to incorporate into your diet.
Recipes:
Antioxidant-Rich Foods
1.) Blueberries, Grapes, and Strawberries
All these fruits contain phytonutrients (flavonoids) that have a high potency of antioxidant activity. Flavonoids are found naturally in fruits and veggies and help decrease your risk of chronic health conditions.
2.) Citrus fruits
Fruits such as lemon, lime, and orange all contain flavonoids as well.
3.) Teas
Green tea and black tea contain polyphenols. These are antioxidants that can protect you from cancer and heart disease. Green tea has a higher concentration of polyphenol.
4.) Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain three powerful antioxidants (beta-carotene, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E).
5.) Ginger
Ginger contains high amounts of Gingerol (the biochemical responsible for Ginger’s medicinal properties). It also contains a high amount of important antioxidants.