List of Antioxidant Fruits and Vegetables

Chemically, antioxidants are molecules which are capable of slowing or preventing the oxidation of other molecules in our body. Oxidation reactions in the body create free radicals which initiate chain reactions that damage the body cells. These reactions are terminated by removing the free radicals and other oxidation reactions are also inhibited by them. The substances that inhibit oxidation are present in plants and animals. These substances are responsible for carrying out the body functions efficiently. Some of these are Vitamin C, Vitamin E, glutathionine and enzymes like catalase, peroxides and superoxide dismutase.

The fresh fruits and vegetables are the best sources of antioxidants as they contain a number of vitamins and minerals. Since they are equipped with molecules to strengthen the immune system, these are better choices than fried and oily food or packaged foods. Listed below are some antioxidant fruits and vegetables.

Fruits Rich in Antioxidants

There are many fruits which are rich sources of Vitamin C, glutathionine and other substances that inhibit oxidation. They are

• Prunes
• Raisins
• Blueberries
• Cranberries
• Strawberries
• Plums
• Red Grapes
• Oranges
• Kiwi Fruit
• Cherries
• Apples
• Peach
• Watermelon
• Pear
• Apricot
• Grapes
• Pomegranates

You can have any of these fruits in either their natural forms of have juices made. But when you blend these fruits not many of their ingredients remain in their original forms and so it's always advised to eat these fruits as fresh as possible. If you're wondering if you can have wine as it is made from grapes, you are truly mistaken as this form of grapes is fermented and has many other unwanted and unhealthy substitutes. Bananas is a natural remedy for cramps in any parts of your body as they have a very rich content of potassium and are healthy for any kinds of diet.

Vegetables Rich in Antioxidants

Vegetables are also a good source of antioxidants like minerals such as iron and magnesium. Their list goes as follows;

• Spinach
• Broccoli Flowers
• Beets
• Red bell pepper
• Brussels sprouts
• Onions
• Eggplants
• Corn
• Kale
• Alfalfa sprouts

Other fiber rich vegetables like cabbage and cauliflower can prove healthy as they reduce the risks of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Tomatoes are also rich in substances that inhibit oxidation and when they are cooked, the heat releases lycopene which decreases the risk of cancer. You can have tomatoes in any way you like, that is in beverages, juices or any other kinds of food dishes. Carrots which have beta-carotene is a healing agent and works against cancer. Beta carotene can also be found in other vegetables and fruits which are orange and yellow in color. This beta carotene works best when it is cooked before consumed.

Fruits as well as vegetables that are rich in these substances, provide a good defense against free radicals and with proper intake you can be protected against strokes, heart attacks, arthritis, vision problems, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's diseases. They can also protect you against diabetes, many types of cancers and provides nourishment to your kidneys, heart and blood vessels. As free radicals increase the risk of cancers and other genetic mutations in your DNA's genetic code, it's always advised to ingest preferably higher or appropriate amounts of antioxidants.

After going through the aforementioned information, you must now be convinced about the grave necessity of antioxidants in our body. So, with the help of the given list keep your family healthy and protected.