What Are Antioxidents Good for?

Antioxidants are found in colorful fruits and vegetables, so fill your plate with lots of different colors.

Children are told from a young age to eat lots of fruits and vegetables, and there is a good reason why. Fruits, vegetables and other foods are full of important nutritional elements called antioxidants. Antioxidants perform many important functions in the body, including neutralizing free radicals, increasing immune function and increasing your overall health by possibly preventing disease.

Neutralize Free Radicals

Tomatos contain the important antioxidant lycopene, which may help to prevent certain types of cancer.

Antioxidants help rid the body of free radicals and prevent oxidative damage. Free radicals are produced when the body digests foods and also come from the environment, such as cigarette smoke. These free radicals are highly reactive and can bump into and damage healthy cells and tissue. Many studies have linked oxidative damage from free radicals to cancer, so it is important to make sure that you are getting enough antioxidants from food in your diet.

Immune Response

Antioxidants are also very important for maintaining proper immune response. Vitamin C, known for its cold-fighting powers, is an essential nutrient and antioxidant. Having a strong immune system is important because it is the body's defense system for fighting off illness and disease. Zinc, a micro-nutrient and antioxidant, is also important for immune function.

Maintenance

Antioxidants and the foods that they are found in are important for maintaining a healthy body. Eating a diet full of antioxidant-rich foods can help keep you at a healthy body weight and help you meet the five fruits and vegetables a day criteria. Vitamin A is an important antioxidant which helps to protect the skin, eyes and bones. Zinc, selenium, and vitamins A, C and E are all important for reducing stress on the body and help with reproduction.

Food Sources

Red wine contains polyphenolic flavonoids, important antioxidants.

Antioxidants are found mainly in fruits and vegetables, but are also found in other foods. Good sources are found in berries, beans, drinks, grains and herbs. Berries are fruits that are typically dark blue and purple. Grains that are oat-based are higher in antioxidants, and nuts such as pistachios and walnuts are also great sources. Tea, coffee, red wine and natural fruit juices are all great sources of antioxidants and great for health.

References

• Medline Plus: Antioxidants
• Mayo Clinic: Food Sources the Best Choice for Antioxidants