Antioxidant foods are characterized by having a series of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that, although not essential for the body, have positive effects on it, especially concerning counteracting the effects of free radicals, which are formed by the Food metabolism and breathing and exercise processes can also be found in the environment, being harmful to our body. However, free radicals also have an excellent function in the body, and it is to eliminate bacteria and viruses that can cause a problem. Still, their presence must be limited, and this is where antioxidants come in. At FastlyHealwe, show you which foods are rich in antioxidants.
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What are antioxidants, and what are they for?
Antioxidants are substances that affect free radicals, which can oxidize some cell components, modifying their functionality. Antioxidants can slow down and even prevent the effects of these molecules on diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes, as well as premature aging. This is why antioxidant foods will help us limit the damage that free radicals can cause to cells.
Foods with vitamin C
Vitamin C will be our first source of antioxidants. It is crucial to absorb iron and improve skin, bones, and tissues. It also acts on the oxidation produced by free radicals in cells. This vitamin only comes from fruits and vegetables and can be found in the following foods:
- Citrus fruits such as orange, lemon, and grapefruit.
- Fruits of the forest; raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, blackberry, and currant.
- Kiwi, apricot, pear, apple, and melon.
- Broccoli, asparagus, potato, and peppers.
Lutein foods
Lutein is a pigment found in plants, and as a source in some foods, it also occurs naturally over time. This substance protects our sight by acting as a sunscreen and developing adequate visual health. In addition, it prevents the oxidation of cells and the proliferation of free radicals, which makes it an excellent antioxidant. Find lutein in foods like:
- Spinach.
- Coles.
- Red peppers.
- Cabbage.
- Lettuce.
- Corn.
- Yolk.
- Kiwis.
- Green peas.
Alimentos with vitamin E
Other antioxidant foods are those that contain vitamin E, which is essential for the formation of red blood cells, prevents the blood from clotting, also allows the immune system to remain firm against any attack, and protects tissues from oxidative damage. . Foods rich in vitamin E are:
- Nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, and corn.
- Sunflower seeds.
- Vegetable oils such as wheat, sunflower, corn, and soy.
- Spinach, Swiss chard, and broccoli.
- Cereals.
- Natural juices and fruits such as kiwi and plum.
- Avocado.
- Olives
- Margarine.
In addition to acting as antioxidants, these foods help prevent hemolytic anemia, and this excess vitamin can cause congenital disabilities.
Foods with vitamin A
There are two types of vitamin A, the preformed one found in foods of animal origin, also known as retinol, and the one that comes from plant origin, known as carotene. Vitamin A is responsible for maintaining bone and soft tissues, and the membranes of the skin promote vision and are required during lactation. This natural antioxidant can be found in:
- Broccoli, spinach, watercress, and green beans.
- Pumpkin, carrot, sweet potato, orange, tangerine.
- Papaya, melon, and peppers.
- Kidneys, liver, and cod.
- Milk, eggs, and cream.
- The meat and the cheese.
Other antioxidant foods
The antioxidant foods are substantial and easy to find and cook, so we encourage you to include them in your daily diet. Here are other foods rich in antioxidants:
- Lycopene foods with lycopene is a pigment that provides color to red fruits and vegetables. It has a significant effect on cardiovascular diseases and has the peculiarity that it must be accompanied by fat so that the body can absorb it effectively. You can find it in tomatoes and its derived products, papaya and watermelon.
- Foods with selenium: this mineral forms an integral part of the enzymes responsible for the antioxidant process and strengthens the immune system. Meat and fish are the best sources of selenium. However, you can also find it in black tea, pears, plums, peaches, tree nuts, peas, and pumpkin seeds.
- Others: garlic, green tea, dark chocolate, and grapes.
This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor if you present any condition or discomfort.
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I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.