Antioxidants are exceedingly popular right now. But what exactly are they, and why are they so important? In this article, we introduce five fruits and vegetables that are packed to the rafters with antioxidants. We also explain how you can enjoy these superfoods in a nutritious and delicious way.
What are antioxidants?
Naturally produced by the human body and found in certain foods, antioxidants prevent cell damage caused by free radicals. If free radicals are able to accumulate, they can cause a condition called oxidative stress. This is damaging to your health, as it can negatively impact your DNA and other vital cell structures. If you suffer from chronic oxidative stress, you are more at risk of health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. However, ensuring your diet is rich in antioxidants is a relatively simple way of fighting oxidative stress and keeping you healthy and well. Let’s look at five of the best fruits and vegetables to include in your diet to boost your antioxidant levels.
Blueberries
According to a FRAP analysis – ferric reducing ability of plasma – blueberries boast 9.2mmol of antioxidants per 100g. Specifically, blueberries are rich in anthocyanin, which can reduce your susceptibility to heart disease and lower your cholesterol and blood pressure. All in all, a super berry for you to consider!
Strawberries
Among the most popular and delicious berries on the planet, strawberries are rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C. A FRAP analysis indicates that they consist of 5.4mmol per 100g, which makes them an ideal addition to your meal plan. Like blueberries, strawberries are rich in anthocyanin, and multiple studies have revealed that an anthocyanin supplement can reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
Try Lovestruck’s delicious Strawberry Split Smoothie, as it’s rich in Carmosa strawberries and is great for your heart.
Raspberries
Raspberries are an excellent source of fibre, manganese, and of course – antioxidants. A FRAP analysis shows that they are similar to strawberries, with around 4mmol per 100grams. A study into raspberries found that the antioxidants within these super berries killed 90% of colon, breast, and stomach cancers in a test tube, which is super impressive!
Kale
A member of the brassicas, kale is a cruciferous vegetable that is widely known for its nutritious properties. In fact, kale is one of the most nutritious greens on the planet and is packed full of vitamins. It’s also rich in antioxidants, coming in at around 2.7mmol per 100grams, according to a FRAP analysis. If you opt for red or Russian kale, you can expect as much as 4.1mmol per 100grams, so it’s worth sniffing out these varieties from time to time.
Lovestruck’s Kale Kick is a great way to get more of this nutritious green into your diet and is blended with mango and spinach to make a delicious veggie smoothie.
Beetroot
Last but not least, beetroot is another excellent antioxidant source and is also high in iron, folate, potassium, and fibre. It contains approximately 1.7mmol of antioxidants per 100grams and is a great source of betalains. These are what give beetroots their reddish, purple colour and are known to lower the risk of cancers in the colon and digestive tract. Beets are also known to suppress inflammation and are ideal for your overall health and wellbeing.
The above five fruits and veggies are among the best ingredients to add to your diet to boost your antioxidant intake. Whether you snack on them during meals or add them to delicious morning smoothies, be sure to try out different things in the kitchen to providing your cells with additional support as they battle against free radicals.