Diet, stress, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors cause free radicals to accumulate in our bodies. If our bodies are not able to process and remove these free radicals efficiently the result will be oxidative stress. If not addressed, cell damage can occur and contribute to the development of chronic disease. The job of antioxidants is to prevent or slow this damage to our cells and prevent oxidative stress.
Plant based nutrition provides powerful antioxidants that provide your body with protection. Examples of antioxidants include beta-carotene, lycopene, vitamins C and Vitamin E. These antioxidant substances come from fruits and vegetables.
According to research, consuming antioxidant rich foods can do the following:
• Slow signs of aging to skin, eyes, joints
• Reduced cancer risk
• Detoxify
• Protection against heart disease and stroke
• Less risk for cognitive problems, such as dementia
• Reduced oxidative stress
You could take an antioxidant supplement, but then you would miss out on the dietary-fiber and minerals you get from whole foods.
Instead try these tasty nutrient rich foods:
• Purple, red, or blue grapes
• Blueberries
• Broccoli
• Artichokes
• Sweet Potatoes
• Cabbage
• Carrots
• Kale
• Dark Chocolate
• Pecans
• Cinnamon
Eat the rainbow, and you’re set!