A reader has posed the following question for discussion on my blog, "I have seen the word antioxidants all over the place in regards to food. What exactly are they and what can they do for me?"
Antioxidants are special compounds that are found in certain vitamins and minerals that protect against the process of oxidation (also known as cellular damage), as well as diseases associated with aging and certain types of cancer. The most well-known antioxidant vitamins are vitamins C and E as well as beta-carotene.
What are good sources of antioxidants?
Beta Carotene is found in vegetables and fruits of orange, red, yellow, and dark green color. Think: cantaloupe, carrots, pumpkin, carrots, sweet potatoes, apricots, broccoli, spinach, kale, and beets.
Vitamin C, which is found in large quantities in citrus fruits, can also be found in other fruits/vegetables such as broccoli, cantaloupe, cherries, bell peppers, strawberries, kiwi, raspberries, tomatoes, cabbage, brussels sprouts, and potatoes.
Some good sources of Vitamin E are almonds, olive oil, oats, sunflower seeds, and peanuts. In addition, it can be found in blackberries, corn, and grapefruit.
Photo courtesy of www.photos8.com
No comments:
Post a Comment