FOODS RICH IN ANTIOXIDANTS HELP PREVENT DISEASE AND IMPROVE HEALTH
Antioxidants are a substance that fights oxidation in the body. It neutralizes the free radicals that form when the body is affected by environmental causes such as pollution, tobacco, alcohol, UV rays,... Many studies have proven the antioxidant benefits to health. It fights free radicals, reduces the risk of diseases, helps the body stay healthy, and prolongs life.
- What are antioxidants?
Antioxidants are molecules that help fight oxidative stress. Oxidative stress caused by free radicals damages healthy cells and is thought to play a role in a variety of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and heart disease. Oxidative stress also negatively affects the aging process.
Our bodies can create antioxidants to control free radicals. Besides, antioxidants can also be provided through food. The best way to supplement antioxidants is to use plant-based foods.
- Product- rich in antioxidants are good for health.
2.1 Green tea
Green tea leaf contains many antioxidant properties such as flavonoids, triterpene saponins, caffeine, tannin, quercetin, essential oils, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), riboflavin (vitamin B), carotene, malic acid, theophylline, xanthin, oxalic acid, kaempferol,...
The above compounds help green tea leaves have great effects such as stopping diarrhea, reducing the risk of cancer, preventing and protecting the heart, anti-aging, maintaining a healthy bone and joint system, enhancing memory, and protecting the heart. Protects the liver, controls blood pressure, prevents diabetes complications, reduces the risk of infectious diseases, supports asthma treatment and reduces the risk of tooth decay.
2.2 Berries.
Berries are an excellent source of antioxidants, which can help combat heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer's, and other disorders. Research has shown that berries like strawberries and blueberries can increase the antioxidant levels in blood and positively affect inflammation, brain function, and mental health.
Moreover, the anti-inflammatory antioxidants present in berries can also help alleviate pain in arthritis patients.
2.3 Cruciferous vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and Brussels sprouts are packed with antioxidants like beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, flavonoids, anthocyanins and terpenes. Consuming these vegetables can help prevent cancer and slow down the growth of cancer cells.
Moreover, another type of antioxidant, glucosinolates, found in cruciferous vegetables, has been found to have anti-cancer properties and may also be beneficial for people suffering from neurological and psychiatric disorders like depression, schizophrenia, autism, Alzheimer's disease, and multiple sclerosis.
2.4 Beans
Beans have been known since ancient times as a great source of dietary fiber, which helps promote regular and effective bowel movements. However, only a few people know that beans are also a rich source of antioxidants. According to a FRAP analysis, beans can contain up to 2 mmol of antioxidants per 3.5 ounces (100 grams).
Furthermore, some types of beans, like pinto beans, contain a unique antioxidant called kaempferol, which is associated with impressive health benefits like reducing chronic inflammation and preventing cancer development.
Excessive free radicals can lead to oxidative stress, which can result in premature aging of cells and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, brain diseases, and certain types of cancer.
Therefore, it is advisable to consume various antioxidant-rich foods as they complement each other and create a synergistic effect in combating free radicals.
