Short Note
Before we look at some of the best antioxidant foods, it would be quite helpful to know something about antioxidants. Antioxidants are compounds that could shield your cells from free radicals – which may contribute to heart disease, cancer, and other disorders.
When you consume food, smoke cigarettes, or are exposed to radiation, your body produces molecules known as free radicals.
Many of the natural antioxidants of interest are plant-derived and belong to the phenolic and polyphenolic class of compounds, as well as carotenoids and antioxidant vitamins.
The activity and method of action of antioxidants are determined by the structural properties of the molecules involved, the system in which they are present, as well as processing and storage conditions, among other factors.
Best antioxidant foods
1. Turkey berries
According to studies that are crucial to human health, phenolics in turkey berries have been identified as the main bioactive chemicals responsible for their antioxidant properties.
It is a well-known fact that the presence of a significant amount of phenolics in food gives health benefits due to their antioxidant properties.
2. Black rice
Black rice contains high levels of anthocyanin and tocopherol (also known as vitamin E – a well-known antioxidant compound). Moreover, antioxidant supplementation has been found in studies to reduce inflammation.
Free radicals can be neutralized by antioxidants, which may help explain why plant-based foods are protective against conditions such as cardiovascular disease (CVD), type 2 diabetes, and cancer.
3. Cucumber
Free radicals can create difficulties in the long run, so eating more antioxidant-rich foods is the greatest approach to assist your body out.
According to research, the high antioxidants and polyphenols found in cucumbers may help protect your body from the oxidative stressors of life.
4. Tiger nut
Tiger nuts are a very good source of vitamin E.
Essentially, it protects your cells from oxidative damage. Accumulated oxidative damage may increase the risk of cancer, neurological disorders, and other chronic illnesses over time (Office of Dietary Supplements, 2015).
As a result, taking enough vitamin E can help your body stay healthy and prevent these problems.
5. African Star Apple (Alasa)
Exocarp of African star apple “Alasa” tree fruit extract was studied for it’s free radical scavenging and phytochemical activity.
Saponins, tannins, triterpenoids, alkaloids, volatile oil, steroids, resins, and balsam are all found in this fruit, according to their research.
As a result, it can be used to treat oxidative stress illnesses in which free radicals are present because it can serve as a natural antioxidant booster.
African star apple’s antioxidant capabilities allow it to scavenge for free radicals in the body hence avoiding lipid peroxidation and cancer.
6. Roselle Juice (Sobolo)
When rats were given hibiscus extract, it raised the quantity of antioxidant enzymes in their systems and decreased the detrimental effects of free radicals by 92 percent, according to a research published in Drug and Chemical Toxicology. While this is an animal study, additional research is needed to discover how hibiscus tea antioxidants may influence people.
7. Cinnamon
Free radicals cause oxidative damage to your body, which antioxidants protect you from.
Cinnamon is high in polyphenols, which are potent antioxidants.
Cinnamon outperformed “superfoods” like garlic and oregano in a study that compared the antioxidant activity of 26 spices.
8. Garlic
Garlic is considered a superfood because of its antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal qualities. This translates to significant skin advantages.
Garlic’s antioxidant properties help to protect your skin from free radical damage.
According to research, garlic helps promote the proliferation and longevity of skin cells, therefore using a topical garlic extract over time may have anti-aging effects.
NB: Please keep in mind that some people may have food sensitivities to any of the foods listed above.
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