antioxidantsThe oxidation process is known to contribute to the development of many diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease and cardiovascular disease.

The brain is also known to be vulnerable to injury to oxidation. Antioxidants can reduce the effects of free radicals that are responsible for causing various diseases such as cancer.

Many companies sell healthy foods antioxidant formulations as dietary supplements. Nearly 30 percent of Americans are known to be taking any antioxidant supplement. Although the role of oxidative stress in cardiovascular disease has been established, controlled studies using antioxidant vitamins have not shown any improvement in reducing the risk of heart disease.

Furthermore scientific evidence has shown that a diet consisting of various fruits and vegetables is beneficial. It is possible that it could be a complex mixture of substances in addition to the antioxidants in these foods available sources that has helped to improve cardiovascular health.

Fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts and seeds are known to be the main source of natural antioxidants. Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables to ensure adequate intake of antioxidants. The best source of antioxidants, are shown below.

  • Fruit – all types berries, pomegranate, grape, orange, plum, pineapple, kiwi and grapefruit
  • Vegetables – kale, peppers, cabbage, pepper, parsley, artichoke, Brussels sprouts, spinach, lemon, ginger and red beets
  • Dried fruit – dried apricots, prunes and dates
  • Legumes – beans, pinto beans and soybeans
  • Nuts and seeds – pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts, peanuts, seeds of flowers and sunshine
  • The cereals – barley, millet, oats and maize
  • Herbs and codiments – Clove, cinnamon and oregano