The Power of Antioxidant Foods

By Kara Plyler
Volunteer
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What are antioxidants?

Antioxidants are substances that help protect your cells against free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause cell damage and increase the risk of cancer and other diseases and may also contribute to aging.

What are some of the top antioxidant foods?

• The 3 Bs: Berries, Beans, & Beets

• Think Orange: Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Squash

• Chocolate (yes, you read that right), but keep it to high quality, dark chocolate

Easy ways to incorporate these foods into your diet

• Top your oatmeal or cereal with a serving of berries, like blueberries or strawberries

• Swap out your regular baked potato for a baked sweet potato

• Add pre-cooked or pickled beets to your salad

• Add a side of beans to your dinner or have a bean dip, like hummus, as a snack (use carrots as a dipper for bonus antioxidants!)

• Have a piece (or 5) of dark chocolate for dessert or a midday pick-me-up or try adding cocoa powder to your smoothie

The Bottom Line

There are numerous options for antioxidant-rich foods outside of just those listed above, and including more of them in your diet could help prevent oxidative stress, a precursor for chronic disease, and improve your overall health. A simple way to do this is to look for the most colorful, whole plant foods next time you’re at the grocery store and begin adding them into your daily routine!