![What are antioxidants and their functions?](https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x960/filters:format(webp)/gytree/media/post_banners/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/E74197CC-642F-41D3-A296-6D33A5BB8A2E.png)
How old were you when you realized that it was too late to start eating healthy now? How old were you when people came and told you that you look so fit but only you know that you have sleeping with an incomplete meal since the past week? How old were you when you realized that no matter how much money you earn, it will always be your health that will take a front seat as you start ageing? Not very old! It is never too late to realize things which are helpful for your own body.
What are antioxidants?
Antioxidants are compounds which are found naturally in food items. These are responsible to defend our bodies from free radicals which are inturn responsible for oxidation caused in our bodies. Antioxidants when obtained via food , get mixed with blood hence reducing the risk of diseases as well.
An antioxidant rich diet might look simple at first but the process behind it is complex enough. Here are a few recommendations of foods that are high in antioxidants and can be accumulated in your diets easily. Let us have a closer look at them.
Foods rich in antioxidants
- Strawberries : who does not love a good strawberry? Red , tangy , sour and filled with flavor. Strawberries are a prime source of vitamin C and the antioxidant anthocyanin. This antioxidant is responsible to reduce the risk of heart diseases.
2. Chocolate : there is not one problem in this world that dark chocolate can't solve. Chocolate is rich in cocoa which is a great source of antioxidant which is great for reducing inflammation and risks of heart diseases.
3. Kale : every mom be it new or old has always shouted at their child to eat their greens in time , and now you better know why. Kale is a rich source of vitamin A , K and C along with great antioxidants.
4. Red Cabbage : red cabbage is a rich source of vitamin C , K and A. It also contains anthocyanins which reduces inflammation , protects against heart disease , and reduces the risk of cancer.
5. Beans : beans are incredibly high in fibre and a massive source of the antioxidant kaempferol.
6. Beetroot : are a great source of fibre , potassium , iron and antioxidants. These contain antioxidants called as betalanins which are good at lowering the risk of cancers.
7. Spinach : antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin are the two antioxidants which protect your skin and eyes from ultraviolet light rays of the sun.
Overview
Everything that you consume has one or the other end goal attached to it. For antioxidants , the goal is to protect your body from free radicals which are responsible for causing oxidation reactions in our body which ultimately are not good for your health.