A Guide To Natural Source Of Antioxidants

Antioxidants are naturally present in the body cells, but we still need additional antioxidants from external sources. There are many natural sources of antioxidants that can be taken as a part of regular daily diet for better health.

Natural Source of Antioxidants

Caretonoid is an antioxidant found in apricot, carrot and all citrus fruits such as oranges. Beta-carotene in a natural antioxidant, and is found in many natural food products. Vitamin A, C and E are the three major vitamin groups that contain plenty of antioxidants. Fruits and vegetables are best natural sources of antioxidants. Unprocessed chocolate and cocoa powder also possess good antioxidant properties, and can be consumed to keep check on dangerous radical of cells.

Wholegrains are also good natural sources of antioxidants, however it is important to understand that these antioxidants must be taken in regulated amounts. Try to take as many as antioxidants naturally than to take the additional supplements. Drink pure fruit juices as they greatly contribute to your antioxidant intake.

It is easy to judge the amount of antioxidants in a particular vegetable or fruit by its color. Brighter colors have more useful vitamins, and all berries are the leaders when it comes to natural sources of antioxidants. Cranberry, strawberry, blackberry, raspberry and blueberry are all high in flavonoids that neutralize the damage caused by free radicals including the effect of superoxide radicals, hydroxyl radicals, peroxyl radicals, hydrogen peroxide and singlet oxygen.

To add natural sources of antioxidants in your daily diet, eat fruits as snacks instead of junk foods. Dry fruits are also rich in antioxidants, and prunes and dates are the leaders. However if you are watching your weight, limit your intake. Garnishes like coriander, dill and parsley are excellent natural sources of antioxidants, and it is easy to add them to your daily diet. Instead of deep frying, stir fry the vegetable to preserve their antioxidants as heat can easily destroy most vitamins.

Natural antioxidant foods are vegetables, fruits, cereals, nuts, seeds and legumes. Best way to get adequate antioxidant intake is to eat variety of foods consisting of 5-8 servings of fruits and vegetables every day. Half cup of beans/legumes contains 13,727 antioxidant capacity per serving size. Healthy food does not have to be tasteless, and you can enjoy delicious food while getting the full natural benefits. You can try new recipes as per your taste to make nutritious food a part of your daily diet. Just learn new cooking methods, and love your vegetables. Getting natural antioxidants also helps improve cardiovascular health and fight cancerous cells.