Many nutrient-dense foods are rich in antioxidants, including certain types of berries, nuts, and vegetables. These foods have also been linked to other health benefits and may protect against chronic disease.
Strawberries
Strawberries are among the most popular berries on the planet. They are sweet, versatile, and a rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Strawberries contain a type of antioxidant called anthocyanins, which give them their red color.
Blueberries
Although they are low in calories, blueberries are packed with nutrients and antioxidants. Blueberries have up to 9.2 mmol of antioxidants per 3.5 oz or 100 grams.
Some studies suggest that blueberries have one of the highest antioxidant capacities among common types of fruits.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is nutritious. It has more cocoa than regular chocolate, as well as more minerals and antioxidants.
Moreover, the antioxidants in cocoa and dark chocolate have been linked to impressive health benefits such as decreased inflammation and reduced risk factors for heart disease.
Pecans
Pecans are a type of nut native to North America. They are a good source of healthy fats and minerals, plus contain a high amount of antioxidants.
In addition, pecans can help raise antioxidant levels in the blood.
Artichokes
Artichokes are a delicious and nutritious vegetable not very common in the North American diet.
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Artichokes are especially rich in the antioxidant known as chlorogenic acid.
Goji berries
Goji berries are the dried fruits of two related plants, Lycium barbarum and Lycium chinense.
They have been a part of traditional Chinese medicine for more than 2,000 years.
Raspberries
Raspberries are soft, tart berries that are often used in desserts. They are a great source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants.
Several studies have linked the antioxidants and other components in raspberries to lower risks of cancer and heart disease.
Kale
Kale is a cruciferous vegetable and a member of the group of vegetables cultivated from the species Brassica oleracea. Other members include broccoli and cauliflower.
Kale is one of the most nutritious greens on the planet and is rich in vitamins A, K, and C. It’s also rich in antioxidants.
Red cabbage
Red cabbage has an impressive nutrient profile. Also known as purple cabbage, it is rich in vitamins C, K, and A, and has a high antioxidant content. It has more than four times the amount of antioxidants in regular cooked cabbage.
Beans
Beans are a diverse group of legumes that are inexpensive and healthy. They are also incredibly high in fiber, which can help keep your bowel movements regular.
Beans are also one of the best vegetable sources of antioxidants. A FRAP analysis found that green broad beans contain up to 2 mmol of antioxidants per 3.5 oz or 100 grams.
Beets
Beets, also known as beetroot, are the roots of a vegetable scientifically known as Beta vulgaris. They have an earthy taste and are a great source of fiber, potassium, iron, folate, and antioxidants.
Spinach
Spinach is one of the most nutritionally dense vegetables. It’s loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and is incredibly low in calories.
Spinach is also a great source of lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that may help protect your eyes from damaging ultraviolet light and other harmful light wavelengths.
Antioxidants are compounds that your body makes naturally. You can also get them from foods.
They protect your body from potentially harmful molecules known as free radicals, which can accumulate and promote oxidative stress. Oxidative stress raises the risk of heart disease, cancers, type 2 diabetes, and many other chronic conditions.
Eating a diet rich in antioxidants can help neutralize free radicals and reduce the risk of these chronic diseases.
