What Is An Antioxidant?
An antioxidant is a compound produced by your body, and in certain foods that help defend your cells from free radical damage. Free radicals are toxic byproducts of oxygen metabolism that can cause significant damage to living cells and tissues. When there is an imbalance of antioxidants to free radical molecules, it causes something called oxidative stress. This form of stress can wreak havoc on your body leading to aging, inflammation, diabetes, and high blood pressure. The good news is, keeping free radicals in check is easily obtainable by eating a antioxidant rich diet. Here are the top 5 antioxidant containing foods you should incorporate into your diet.
1. Red Kidney Beans
As a complex carbohydrate full of fiber, red kidney beans help lower cholesterol and keep the body’s sugar content balanced. The antioxidants in red kidney beans fight free radicals while the abundance of vitamin B1 and protein help boost energy and improve memory.
2. Blueberries
The main antioxidant compounds in blueberries are a part of the flavanoid family. The anthocyanins group of flavanoids is what is thought to give blueberries most of their health benefits, such as preventing diabetes, regulating blood sugar, and lowering cholesterol.
3. Cranberries
Cranberries are higher in antioxidants and lower in sugar than most other fruits, working to prevent urinary tract infections and improve your digestion. They also help lower cholesterol and boost your immune system!
4. Artichokes
Artichokes are full of antioxidants, fiber, vitamin C and cynarin that help boost heart health, liver health and reduce cancer risk.
5. Pecans
Pecans contain phenolic antioxidants which help reduce the risk of heart disease. They are also full of fiber and magnesium, aiding digestion and reducing inflammation.
Need an extra antioxidant boost? Resveratrol Platinum provides your body with the building blocks it needs to maintain health of the brain, heart and all vital organs as well as helping to fight the development of age related diseases. It’s a great supplement to a balanced, antioxidant filled diet to help slow down aging and boost your immune system.