THESE Antioxidant foods will help you fight the harmful effects of free radicals

Antioxidants are compounds that are naturally produced in our body and often found in a number of food items. Antioxidants protect our cells from damage that are caused by potentially harmful molecules known as free radicals. Intense oxidative stress are the result of free radicals accumulating. The oxidative stress damages the DNA and other important structures in the cells. Chronic illnesses such as heart diseases, type 2 diabetes and cancer are caused by chronic oxidative stress. Thankfully the harmful effects of oxidation of free radicals can be eliminated by eating a rich in antioxidants.

This will help increase the blood antioxidant levels to fight oxidative stress, therefore protecting us from life threatening diseases. The antioxidant content in a food item is measured by the FRAP test aka Ferric Reducing Ability of Plasma analysis. Therefore, the higher the FRAP value, the better the food item is at stabilizing free radicals. 

Here’s a list of food items that are proven to be great antioxidants!

1. Dark chocolate

Dark chocolate is a heart healthy food item. It protects the heart by raising blood antioxidant levels, HDL cholesterol and preventing LDL cholesterol from getting oxidized. Oxidized LDL is responsible for inflammation in the blood vessels, thus leading to an increased risk of heart disease.

2. Blueberries

Blueberries are one of the best sources of antioxidants. They are rich in anthocyanins which reduces the risk of heart disease. It also helps in delaying age related decline in brain function.

3. Artichokes

Artichokes have some of the highest levels of antioxidants among vegetables. It is also rich in chlorogenic acid. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits of chlorogenic acid reduces the risk of certain cancers, type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

4. Red cabbage

Red cabbage contains anthocyanins, which is linked to a number of health benefits. They help in reducing inflammation, risks of heart disease and certain forms of cancers. Red cabbage is also rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant by strengthening the immune system and keeping the skin elastic.

5. Strawberries

Strawberries are also a great source of anthocyanins. Anthocyanins help reduce the risk of heart disease by reducing levels of bad cholesterol and raising good cholesterol in our body.

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