Antioxidants are a hot topic of discussion these days and there are good reasons for the same. They play a very important role in preventing the progression of various life-threatening diseases such as heart disease, cancer, arthritis, Alzheimer’s, and cataract amongst others. They can also assist you with your weight loss goals.
The Fruits Rich in Antioxidants
But what exactly are antioxidants and from where these can be sourced? Well, a lot of antioxidants can be found in our foods while many others are synthesized by our bodies. So let’s stat what are antioxidants and fruits rich in antioxidants.
Keep reading and get high protein snacks to put in your shopping card.
Antioxidants and their function
Antioxidants act as the body’s defense against tissue, cell, and genetic damage by neutralizing the harmful chemicals in the body called free radicals. Normally, our body can withstand these free radicals to some extent but when these are present in large quantities, they damage the fatty acids, proteins, as well as DNA in our bodies.
Our body produces its own antioxidants, but the ability is impaired as we turn 20 years of age. So it becomes important to find alternative sources. The good news is that there are plenty of antioxidants in fruits and vegetables.
Much of what nature has to offer contains antioxidants in large quantities. Below, we list some antioxidant fruits that give you the greatest protection against the free radicals by supplying your body with plenty of antioxidants.
Blueberry
Blueberries are one of the berries best known for their powerful amount of antioxidants. Blueberries are also useful in several other ways as they contain, among other things, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium, all of which are important for the body’s well-being and function. Blueberries can also have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body from the inside. In other words, blueberries are an incredible source of novelties and health-promoting properties, so be sure to fill the fridge with this sweet berry!
Plum
Plum is rich in the polyphenols and antioxidants that can help slow the breakdown of bone mass. Plums also contain a lot of chlorogenic acid, an antioxidant that has been shown to help regulate the blood sugar.
Strawberries
Strawberries contain phytochemicals and flavonoids that promote heart health by helping to clear bad cholesterol from the bloodstream and improve blood fats. The antioxidants in strawberries help reduce inflammation in the body and joints.
Acai Berry
Acai, a blue-purple berry from Amazon is an extremely rich source of antioxidants. The berries also contain fiber that is good for digestion. In addition to amino acids that maintain our muscles, there are plenty of vitamins in the berry, including C, A, B1, B2, B3 and E. They also contain anthocyanins that keep the heart-healthy. A power-packed berry, in short.
Pomegranate
Pomegranate is one of the most antioxidant-rich fruits. The Ellagic acid in the pomegranate has anti-cancer properties and provides protection against heart disease. There are also plenty of tannins, lignans, and anthocyanins.
In recent years, pomegranate has been recognized to inhibit prostate cancer and atherosclerosis. Pomegranate is best enjoyed fresh, but if you find it difficult to find it, you can also try pomegranate juice or pomegranate extract as a powder or tablet.
The conclusion
Your body needs antioxidants to protect itself from free radicals. If you want to help your body absorb more antioxidants and keep your body healthy, clean, and strong, it may be good to eat foods rich in antioxidants. Try to keep your plate colorful! And, try to include the raw food and fruits listed above in your diet.
