To understand antioxidants, let’s first understand oxidants and their effect on our health.
Oxidants are chemicals or Oxidation is a chemical reaction that takes place inside human body which causes loss of Electrons. Electrons are chemical sources that create energy in a human body. When we eat, our digestive system breaks down large molecules present in our food into smaller molecules. These molecules and elements activate cells in our body which is how energy gets created. When these atoms or molecules come in contact with oxygen, oxidation takes place.
When the above chemical reaction takes place, it affects functioning of body at cell level. What balances or neutralizes the effect of oxidation are antioxidants; they protect other molecules from being oxidized. Vitamin C, E, and Beta Carotene are known to destroy oxidizing agents in a living organism. Antioxidants are commonly added to foods like vegetable oils and prepared foods which help to prevent or postpone their decline from the action of air.
Foods High in Anti Oxidants:
For Juniors & Babies: Apple, Pear, Peaches, Blueberries, Banana in solid, boiled-pulped, sauce, and juice form.
Spice & Herbs: Coriander, Dill, Basil, Pepper, Cardamom, Cloves, Ginger, Mustard, paprika, Nutmeg, Poppy, Vanilla
Veggies: Garlic, Cabbage, Broccoli, sweet potato, radish, cauliflower, beat, spinach, parsley, regular potato, carrots, Onion, Cucumber, Mushroom etc.
Drinks & Beverages: Red Wine, Green Brewed Tea of any flavour prepared with Tap water (can be linked to bottled water heading in article no six, spoiling your smile)
Cereals: Rice Bran, Wheat, Corn – frozen, fresh, dried, flakes; Fortified, plain dry oats, Granola with raisins, multigrain bread, pumpernickel
Dairy Products: Reduced fat milk, milk chocolate, frozen chocolate, skimmed milk yogurt, ice-cream, cheese, buttermilk, goat milk etc
Oils: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Parsley, Basil Home Prepared, Peanut oil,
Fruits: Apple, Pear, with or without skin; Pomegranate, Apricot, Guava, Dates, Prunes, Lime raw or juice, Kiwi Fruit, Melon, Pineapple, Papaya….
Legumes are highly nutritious and rich source of protein and antioxidants. Black and red kidney beans and all other varieties of it, Lentil, Soybeans, Alfalfa, Peas…
Medicinal Herbs: Thyme and a few others…
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