Foods That Contain Antioxidants

For many, getting older is often seen as a negative. With the use of antioxidants, the aging process can be slowed down while allowing a person to age gracefully. Antioxidants basically attach to free radicals and prevent cells from aging through a process called oxidation. By eating foods or beverages high in antioxidants, the fountain of youth can be potentially tapped to keep you looking younger later into your years. Below, you will find a list of foods that are often under looked as great sources of antioxidants.

1. Dark chocolate

Now dessert does not have to be such a bad thing. Enjoy a couple pieces of dark chocolate to increase your antioxidant uptake. Remember, milk chocolate is not what you want to be consuming. The more cacao the chocolate has, the more benefits that it offers. Not only does it have more than twice the amount of antioxidants of wine, it tastes great!

2. Green tea

Green tea is actually giving coffee a run for its money and is another great source of antioxidants. Also, green tea is known for its anti-inflammatory properties which may be help for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Another known fact, green tea may have up to 10 times more antioxidants than those found in vegetables and fruits.

3. Pomegranates

One of the earliest recorded fruits, the pomegranate has been touted as a symbol of life, fertility, and longevity. Punicalagins, chemicals found in this fruit, are known to help lower cholesterol levels and improve cardio circulation. Another added benefit is fresh squeezed pomegranate has been known to reduce the amount of heart blockages by up to 30 percent for those who drank one ounce of juice everyday for up to a year. 

4. Red wine

This is one of the more popular beverages that has high antioxidant properties. Wine, specifically reds, are known to have polyphenols and resveratrol. These compounds are regarded as anti-aging chemicals that will keep you feeling and looking great. Red wine is also great for your overall cardiovascular health and may promote good kidney function.

5. Coffee

Often carrying a bad reputation for its other side effects, coffee is actually a great source of antioxidants and is the number one source for most Americans. Another benefit associated with drinking coffee is that java drinkers have half the chance of developing liver cancer according to the National Cancer Institute. In addition, coffee may be able to reduce the chances of colon cancer by stimulating the bowels. 

6. Blueberries

Although last on the list, the blueberry is actually number one on the list of fruits with the most antioxidants. This berry is one of the most popular and for good reason. The blueberry has the ability to repair damaged DNA structure while still being a tasty snack. For those that can only get blueberries in season, this berry can be frozen with no damage to the antioxidants.