Antioxidants are compounds that help protect your cells from damage. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and lead to disease. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals and help prevent cell damage.
Fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of antioxidants. They contain a variety of antioxidant compounds, including vitamins C and E, carotenoids, and flavonoids.
Antioxidants from fruits and vegetables have been shown to have a number of health benefits, including:
• Protecting against chronic diseases. Antioxidants may help protect against chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease.
• Boosting the immune system. Antioxidants help support the immune system and fight off infection.
• Improving eye health. Antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin are important for eye health and may help protect against macular degeneration and cataracts.
• Promoting healthy skin. Antioxidants can help protect the skin from damage caused by the sun and other environmental factors.
Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables is the best way to get the antioxidants you need. Some good sources of antioxidants from fruits and vegetables include:
• Fruits: Berries, citrus fruits, grapes, kiwis, mangoes, melons, papayas, pineapples, plums, and tomatoes
• Vegetables: Artichokes, asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, collard greens, kale, leafy greens, onions, peppers, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and winter squash
Antioxidants
