Antioxidants scavenge free radicals from the body cells and prevent or reduce the damage caused by oxidation. The protective effect of antioxidants continues to be studied around the world.

For instance, men who eat plenty of the antioxidant lycopene found in red fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, apricots, pink grapefruit and watermelon may be less likely than other men to develop prostate cancer.

Lycopene has also been linked to reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus. Lutein, found in spinach and corn, has been linked to a lower incidence of eye lens degeneration and associated vision loss in the elderly. Research also suggests that dietary lutein may improve memory and prevent cognitive decline.

Studies show that flavonoid-rich foods prevent some diseases, including metabolic-related diseases and cancer. Apples, grapes, citrus fruits, berries, tea, onions, olive oil and red wine are the most common sources of flavonoids. Plant foods are rich sources of antioxidants.

They are most abundant in fruits and vegetables, as well as other foods including nuts, wholegrains and some meats, poultry and fish. Good sources of specific antioxidants include:. There is increasing evidence that antioxidants are more effective when obtained from whole foods, rather than isolated from a food and presented in tablet form.

Research shows that some vitamin supplements can increase our cancer risk. For example, vitamin A beta-carotene has been associated with a reduced risk of certain cancers, but an increase in others — such as lung cancer in smokers if vitamin A is purified from foodstuffs.

A study examining the effects of vitamin E found that it did not offer the same benefits when taken as a supplement. A well-balanced diet, which includes consuming antioxidants from whole foods, is best. If you need to take a supplement, seek advice from your doctor or dietitian and choose supplements that contain all nutrients at the recommended levels.

Research is divided over whether antioxidant supplements offer the same health benefits as antioxidants in foods. To achieve a healthy and well-balanced diet , it is recommended we eat a wide variety from the main 5 food groups every day:.

To meet your nutritional needs, as a minimum try to consume a serve of fruit and vegetables daily. Although serving sizes vary depending on gender, age and stage of life, this is roughly a medium-sized piece of fruit or a half-cup of cooked vegetables.

The Australian Dietary Guidelines External Link has more information on recommended servings and portions for specific ages, life stage and gender. It is also thought antioxidants and other protective constituents from vegetables, legumes and fruit need to be consumed regularly from early life to be effective.

See your doctor or dietitian for advice. The body, long used to this relentless attack, makes many molecules that quench free radicals as surely as water douses fire. We also extract free-radical fighters from food. They are also involved in mechanisms that repair DNA and maintain the health of cells.

There are hundreds, probably thousands, of different substances that can act as antioxidants. The most familiar ones are vitamin C , vitamin E , beta-carotene , and other related carotenoids, along with the minerals selenium and manganese.

Most are naturally occurring, and their presence in food is likely to prevent oxidation or to serve as a natural defense against the local environment. It is really a chemical property, namely, the ability to act as an electron donor. Some substances that act as antioxidants in one situation may be pro-oxidants—electron grabbers—in a different situation.

Another big misconception is that antioxidants are interchangeable. Each one has unique chemical behaviors and biological properties.

They almost certainly evolved as parts of elaborate networks, with each different substance or family of substances playing slightly different roles.

This means that no single substance can do the work of the whole crowd. Antioxidants came to public attention in the s, when scientists began to understand that free radical damage was involved in the early stages of artery-clogging atherosclerosis.

It was also linked to cancer , vision loss, and a host of other chronic conditions. Some studies showed that people with low intakes of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables were at greater risk for developing these chronic conditions than were people who ate plenty of those foods. Clinical trials began testing the impact of single substances in supplement form, especially beta-carotene and vitamin E, as weapons against chronic diseases.

Supplement makers touted the disease-fighting properties of all sorts of antioxidants. The research results were mixed, but most did not find the hoped-for benefits.

Antioxidants are still added to breakfast cereals, sports bars, energy drinks, and other processed foods , and they are promoted as additives that can prevent heart disease, cancer, cataracts, memory loss, and other conditions.

Randomized placebo-controlled trials, which can provide the strongest evidence, offer little support that taking vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, or other single antioxidants provides substantial protection against heart disease, cancer, or other chronic conditions.

The results of the largest trials have been mostly negative. A modest effect of vitamin E has been found in some studies but more research is needed. A study from the Journal of Respiratory Research found that different isoforms of vitamin E called tocopherols had opposing effects on lung function.

Lung function was tested using spirometric parameters: higher parameters are indicative of increased lung function, while lower parameters are indicative of decreased lung function. The study found that higher serum levels of alpha-tocopherol were associated with higher spirometric parameters and that high serum levels of gamma-tocopherol were associated with lower spirometric parameters.

Though the study was observational in nature, it confirmed the mechanistic pathway of alpha- and gamma-tocopherol in mice studies.

When it comes to cancer prevention, the picture remains inconclusive for antioxidant supplements. Few trials have gone on long enough to provide an adequate test for cancer.

High-dose antioxidant supplements can also interfere with medicines. Vitamin E supplements can have a blood-thinning effect and increase the risk of bleeding in people who are already taking blood-thinning medicines.

Some studies have suggested that taking antioxidant supplements during cancer treatment might interfere with the effectiveness of the treatment. Inform your doctor if starting supplements of any kind. One possible reason why many studies on antioxidant supplements do not show a health benefit is because antioxidants tend to work best in combination with other nutrients, plant chemicals, and even other antioxidants.

For example, a cup of fresh strawberries contains about 80 mg of vitamin C, a nutrient classified as having high antioxidant activity. Polyphenols also have many other chemical properties besides their ability to serve as antioxidants.

There is a question if a nutrient with antioxidant activity can cause the opposite effect with pro-oxidant activity if too much is taken. This is why using an antioxidant supplement with a single isolated substance may not be an effective strategy for everyone.

Differences in the amount and type of antioxidants in foods versus those in supplements might also influence their effects. For example, there are eight chemical forms of vitamin E present in foods.

However, vitamin E supplements typically only include one form, alpha-tocopherol. Epidemiological prospective studies show that higher intakes of antioxidant-rich fruits, vegetables, and legumes are associated with a lower risk of chronic oxidative stress-related diseases like cardiovascular diseases , cancer, and deaths from all causes.

The following are nutrients with antioxidant activity and the foods in which they are found:. Excessive free radicals contribute to chronic diseases including cancer, heart disease, cognitive decline, and vision loss.

Keep in mind that most of the trials conducted have had fundamental limitations due to their relatively short duration and inclusion of people with existing disease. At the same time, abundant evidence suggests that eating whole in fruits , vegetables , and whole grains —all rich in networks of naturally occurring antioxidants and their helper molecules—provides protection against many scourges of aging.

The contents of this website are for educational purposes and are not intended to offer personal medical advice. You should seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

The Nutrition Source does not recommend or endorse any products. Skip to content The Nutrition Source. The Nutrition Source Menu. Search for:. Home Nutrition News What Should I Eat? In , a rating tool called the Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity ORAC was created by scientists from the National Institute on Aging and the United States Department of Agriculture USDA.

It was used to measure the antioxidant capacity of foods. The USDA provided an ORAC database on its website highlighting foods with high ORAC scores, including cocoa, berries, spices, and legumes. Blueberries and other foods topping the list were heavily promoted in the popular press as disease-fighters even if the science was weak, from cancer to brain health to heart disease.

However, 20 years later the USDA retracted the information and removed the database after determining that antioxidants have many functions, not all of which are related to free radical activity. What sets green tea apart from other teas is the high number of catechins, a type of phytochemical that acts as a powerful antioxidant.

These catechins are known to be antimicrobial agents, and research, including the aforementioned study, has shown they have the ability to potentially help treat and prevent infectious diseases. Here are the nutrition facts for 1 cup of brewed green tea g , per the USDA :. Sweet and sumptuous, strawberries are a crown jewel of the berry world.

Like blueberries, strawberries get their vivid red color from anthocyanins, granting them superfood status. Studies have shown strawberries may reduce inflammation and decrease blood pressure, which in turn could help prevent heart disease , according to a research review.

Here are the nutritional facts for 1 cup g of strawberry halves, per the USDA :. RELATED: The 8 Best Fruits for a Diabetes-Friendly Diet. In fact, beans have almost the same amount of protein found in meat, according to a study. While beans have a reputation of causing digestive discomfort in some people, that usually subsides with regular consumption — and the numerous health benefits from these high nutrient nuggets also make up for it.

Here are the nutritional facts for 1 cup g of canned red kidney beans, drained and rinsed, per the USDA :. Whole oats are hives of antioxidant activity, which may help reduce chronic inflammation linked to heart disease and diabetes, according to the Harvard T.

Oats are also a good food for those trying to lose weight. The high levels of soluble fiber in oats allows them to readily absorb water, which helps slow digestion and makes you feel more full, notes Harvard.

RELATED: The Complete Guide to Oats. Yes, you finally have an excuse to eat chocolate on the daily — dark chocolate , that is. The flavonoids in cacao beans, from which chocolate is produced, act as antioxidants that may play a role in cancer prevention , heart health, and weight loss, according to a study.

Consumed in small amounts around 1 ounce per day , dark chocolate with a minimum of 70 percent cacao may have other added health benefits, such as improving cognition, preventing memory loss , and boosting mood, reported another study.

Here are the nutritional facts for 1 ounce Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions.

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By Anna Brooks. Medically Reviewed. Kayli Anderson, RDN of American College of Lifestyle Medicine. Consider nutrient-rich foods for your arsenal against chronic disease.

Department of Agriculture USDA : Calories 84 Protein 1. Here are the nutrition facts for 1 cup 91 g of chopped broccoli, per the USDA : Calories 31 Protein 2. Here are the nutrition facts for 1 ounce 28 g of walnuts, per the USDA : Calories Protein 4.

Here are the nutrition facts for 1 cup 30 g of spinach, per the USDA : Calories 7 Protein 0. Here are the nutritional facts for 1 medium g russet potato with skin , per the USDA : Calories Protein 4.

Here are the nutrition facts for 1 cup of brewed green tea g , per the USDA : Calories 2. Here are the nutritional facts for 1 cup g of strawberry halves, per the USDA : Calories 49 Protein 1. Here are the nutritional facts for 1 cup g of canned red kidney beans, drained and rinsed, per the USDA : Calories Protein How to Cook It: Roasted Balsamic Strawberry Sauce Everyday Health staff nutritionist Kelly Kennedy, RDN, shows you how to make a low-calorie strawberry balsamic sauce.

This sweet and tangy sauce can top everything from salad to ice cream. Add a dose of antioxidants to your favorite dish today! Next up video playing in 10 seconds. Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking. Resources Rodriguez-Amaya DB.

Natural Food Pigments and Colorants. Current Opinion in Food Science. February Harvard T. Antioxidant Supplements: What You Need to Know. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. July Panche AN, Diwan AD, Chandra SR. Flavonoids: An Overview. Journal of Nutritional Science.

Research shows that some vitamin supplements can increase our cancer risk. For example, vitamin A beta-carotene has been associated with a reduced risk of certain cancers, but an increase in others — such as lung cancer in smokers if vitamin A is purified from foodstuffs.

A study examining the effects of vitamin E found that it did not offer the same benefits when taken as a supplement.

A well-balanced diet, which includes consuming antioxidants from whole foods, is best. If you need to take a supplement, seek advice from your doctor or dietitian and choose supplements that contain all nutrients at the recommended levels.

Research is divided over whether antioxidant supplements offer the same health benefits as antioxidants in foods. To achieve a healthy and well-balanced diet , it is recommended we eat a wide variety from the main 5 food groups every day:.

To meet your nutritional needs, as a minimum try to consume a serve of fruit and vegetables daily. Although serving sizes vary depending on gender, age and stage of life, this is roughly a medium-sized piece of fruit or a half-cup of cooked vegetables. The Australian Dietary Guidelines External Link has more information on recommended servings and portions for specific ages, life stage and gender.

It is also thought antioxidants and other protective constituents from vegetables, legumes and fruit need to be consumed regularly from early life to be effective.

See your doctor or dietitian for advice. This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:. Learn all about alcohol - includes standard drink size, health risks and effects, how to keep track of your drinking, binge drinking, how long it takes to leave the body, tips to lower intake.

A common misconception is that anorexia nervosa only affects young women, but it affects all genders of all ages. Antipsychotic medications work by altering brain chemistry to help reduce psychotic symptoms like hallucinations, delusions and disordered thinking.

No special diet or 'miracle food' can cure arthritis, but some conditions may be helped by avoiding or including certain foods. Kilojoule labelling is now on the menu of large food chain businesses — both in-store and online.

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Home Healthy eating. Actions for this page Listen Print. Summary Read the full fact sheet. On this page. About oxidation Antioxidants and free radicals The effect of free radicals Disease-fighting antioxidants Sources of antioxidants Vitamin supplements and antioxidants Dietary recommendations for antioxidants Where to get help.

About oxidation The process of oxidation in the human body damages cell membranes and other structures, including cellular proteins, lipids and DNA. Antioxidants and free radicals Antioxidants are found in certain foods and may prevent some of the damage caused by free radicals by neutralising them.

Disease-fighting antioxidants A diet high in antioxidants may reduce the risk of many diseases including heart disease and certain cancers. Sources of antioxidants Plant foods are rich sources of antioxidants.

Also derived from the plants that animals eat. Vitamin supplements and antioxidants There is increasing evidence that antioxidants are more effective when obtained from whole foods, rather than isolated from a food and presented in tablet form.

Antioxidants are present in a wide variety of accessible foods: Colorful produce , nuts, whole grains , and even animal protein. If you needed an excuse to eat more berries, this is it.

Featured image from our interview with Megan Roup by Michelle Nash. Edie is the founder of nutrition coaching business, Wellness with Edie. Foundational to our wellbeing, antioxidants help prevent—or limit—damage caused by free radicals.

The fewer free radicals we have, the better. Research shows that this damage is a factor in the development of various diseases, cancer, and other conditions.

In essence, antioxidants protect the body from these harmful molecules. When cells are exposed to oxidative stress, antioxidants come to the rescue. They slow the wear and tear to cells caused by oxidative stress. They balance free radicals.

And when free radicals are unable to cause damage to other cells, our immune system stays that much stronger. Year-round, a strong immune system is key. It should come as no surprise that we need antioxidants.

But, how much is enough? Although the exact amount is debated, for every calories per day, you should aim for at least 8, ORAC units. ORAC stands for Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity. It measures the antioxidant capacity of different foods. While strawberries are high in ORAC units, french fries are much lower.

Although we generate our own antioxidants, we also need to consume them. Our cells naturally produce powerful antioxidants—such as glutathione —but the foods we eat supply other antioxidants like vitamin C and E. Between what the body produces and what nature provides, we get the best of both worlds.

The benefits of eating antioxidants or fruits high in antioxidants, specifically , speak for themselves. We need them to optimize our wellbeing. Plus, they can potentially ward off certain diseases.

Research is underway, but antioxidants might be able to mitigate the risk of developing cancer. Regardless, we do know that consuming foods high in vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta carotene can support the growth of healthy cells.

Antioxidant supplements are commonly considered healthy. However, they can be problematic when taken in excess. They may decrease exercise benefits and increase your risk of certain cancers and birth defects. There are hundreds possibly, thousands of different substances that can act as antioxidants.

The most familiar are vitamin C, beta carotene, lutein, selenium, and manganese. These come in the form of food and supplements—bell peppers, grapes, oranges, avocados, walnuts, Brazil nuts, etc. These substances are joined by other well-known compounds in the wellness world. Coenzyme Q10, flavonoids, polyphenols, glutathione, and more.

Glutathione, in particular, is the most powerful and important antioxidant our body produces. When you think about building your breakfast, lunch, and dinner, try to choose the rainbow.

These colors are all high in antioxidants. Luckily, there are plenty of foods that are high in antioxidants. When possible, buy organic to limit additional exposure to chemicals and pesticides.

Making a smoothie for breakfast, a leafy green salad for lunch, and a grain bowl for dinner will certainly include an abundance of antioxidants. Red wine and coffee count, too! In fact, coffee is one of the highest sources of antioxidants in the American diet.

This varies from person to person, and experts seem to have varying opinions as well. This ultimately comes down to your health goals, metabolism, and how you digest fructose. More on that, below. Generally speaking, two servings of fruit per day is optimal. Given that balancing your blood sugar is important for everyone!

According to Levels , start with small portions of fruit. That way, you can see how your body reacts. Berries tend to work well for people. Which is great, as berries are one of our favorite high-antioxidant foods.

Starchy, high-sugar fruits bananas and dates may cause a blood sugar spike. Pair fruit with fat and protein like nut butters or full-fat plain yogurt and fiber chia seeds or flaxseeds. These foods can blunt a blood sugar spike. There are numerous choices for antioxidant-rich foods, but these are the top 17 fruits that are high in antioxidants.

Fun fact: artichokes contain more antioxidants than any other vegetable! Is there anything better than in-season asparagus?

Antioxidant supplements are commonly considered healthy. However, they can be problematic when taken in excess. They may decrease exercise benefits and increase your risk of certain cancers and birth defects.

There are hundreds possibly, thousands of different substances that can act as antioxidants. The most familiar are vitamin C, beta carotene, lutein, selenium, and manganese. These come in the form of food and supplements—bell peppers, grapes, oranges, avocados, walnuts, Brazil nuts, etc.

These substances are joined by other well-known compounds in the wellness world. Coenzyme Q10, flavonoids, polyphenols, glutathione, and more.

Glutathione, in particular, is the most powerful and important antioxidant our body produces. When you think about building your breakfast, lunch, and dinner, try to choose the rainbow. These colors are all high in antioxidants. Luckily, there are plenty of foods that are high in antioxidants.

When possible, buy organic to limit additional exposure to chemicals and pesticides. Making a smoothie for breakfast, a leafy green salad for lunch, and a grain bowl for dinner will certainly include an abundance of antioxidants.

Red wine and coffee count, too! In fact, coffee is one of the highest sources of antioxidants in the American diet. This varies from person to person, and experts seem to have varying opinions as well.

This ultimately comes down to your health goals, metabolism, and how you digest fructose. More on that, below. Generally speaking, two servings of fruit per day is optimal. Given that balancing your blood sugar is important for everyone!

According to Levels , start with small portions of fruit. That way, you can see how your body reacts. Berries tend to work well for people. Which is great, as berries are one of our favorite high-antioxidant foods.

Starchy, high-sugar fruits bananas and dates may cause a blood sugar spike. Pair fruit with fat and protein like nut butters or full-fat plain yogurt and fiber chia seeds or flaxseeds. These foods can blunt a blood sugar spike. There are numerous choices for antioxidant-rich foods, but these are the top 17 fruits that are high in antioxidants.

Fun fact: artichokes contain more antioxidants than any other vegetable! Is there anything better than in-season asparagus? They make an easy main course and are endlessly customizable.

Just one cup of baked sweet potatoes with the skin supplies you with more than twice the recommended amount of beta-carotene. Beta-carotene supports us in everything from vision to our immune system to keeping our skin healthy and glowing. Several studies suggest that blueberries contain the highest amount of antioxidants among all commonly consumed fruits and vegetables.

Toss them into salads or stew them into oatmeal. As you probably know, broccoli is a powerhouse veggie, particularly when it comes to antioxidants.

Broccoli supports eye health by containing lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene. In disease-fighting antioxidants, cranberries outrank nearly every fruit and vegetable—including strawberries, spinach, broccoli, red grapes, etc.

One cup of whole cranberries has an 8, total antioxidant capacity. Beyond your traditional Thanksgiving sauce, cranberries are delightful when boiled with orange juice, vanilla, and cinnamon.

You can also use them in mocktails and cocktails. The deeper the color, the more antioxidants the berry contains. Along with other antioxidants, raspberries also contain vitamin C.

Add raspberries to your favorite yogurt bowl. Packed with vitamins, fiber, and high levels of polyphenols, strawberries are among the top 20 fruits in antioxidant capacity. They are also a good source of manganese and potassium. Try freeze-dried strawberries in these strawberry coconut energy bites or toss fresh strawberries into a light yet hearty salad.

Goji berries are high in antioxidants. They have the potential to alleviate oxidative stress and prevent free radicals from damaging DNA. Red grapes contain higher numbers of antioxidants due to the anthocyanins that give them their color.

Grapes also contain vitamin C, beta-carotene, quercetin, lutein, lycopene and ellagic acid. All of these are powerful antioxidants as well.

Glass of pino and roasted grape crostinis , anyone? Rich in antioxidants and fiber, figs contain small amounts of calcium, iron, potassium, copper, and certain B vitamins.

Figs are dense in phenol antioxidants. The best way to enjoy figs is raw, with the skin and seeds intact. You can also remove the peels and scoop out the seeds. These foods have also been linked to other health benefits and may protect against chronic disease. Antioxidants are compounds made in the body and found in food that help defend cells from free radicals , which can cause oxidative stress and increase the chance of developing various chronic diseases.

Eating a diet rich in antioxidants increases blood antioxidant levels to reduce oxidative stress and disease risk. Here are the top 14 healthy foods that are high in antioxidants. Lucky for chocolate lovers, dark chocolate is nutritious.

It has more cocoa than regular chocolate, as well as more minerals and antioxidants. Moreover, the antioxidants in cocoa and dark chocolate have been linked to impressive health benefits such as decreased inflammation and reduced risk factors for heart disease.

Learn about the health benefits of dark chocolate. Pecans are a type of nut native to North America. They are a good source of healthy fats and minerals, plus contain a high amount of antioxidants.

In addition, pecans can help raise antioxidant levels in the blood and may help reduce cholesterol, which is a risk factor for heart disease. That said, although pecans are a great source of healthy fats , they are also high in calories.

Learn about the health benefits of pecans. Although they are low in calories, blueberries are packed with nutrients and antioxidants. Research from test-tube and animal studies has shown that the antioxidants in blueberries may delay aging-related decline in brain function by neutralizing harmful free radicals, reducing inflammation, and altering the expression of certain genes.

Additionally, the antioxidants in blueberries , especially anthocyanins, have been shown to reduce risk factors for heart disease, and lower both LDL cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

Learn about the health benefits of blueberries. Strawberries are sweet, versatile, and rich in vitamin C. They also contain a lot of the antioxidant anthocyanin , which gives them their red color.

Research has shown that anthocyanins may help reduce the risk of heart disease by reducing levels of LDL bad cholesterol and raising HDL good cholesterol.

Learn about the health benefits of strawberries. Artichokes are a great source of dietary fiber, minerals, and antioxidants. They are especially rich in an antioxidant known as chlorogenic acid, which may help reduce the risk of certain cancers, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

That said, the antioxidant content of artichokes can vary depending on how they are prepared. Learn about the health benefits of artichokes. Goji berries are often marketed as a superfood because they are rich in vitamins and minerals. Goji berries also contain unique antioxidants known as Lycium barbarum polysaccharides, which have been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and cancer.

Moreover, there is limited research on the effects of goji berries on humans. Though these support their health benefits, more human-based research is needed.

Learn about the health benefits of goji berries. Raspberries are a great source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and manganese. A review of five studies also concluded that the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of black raspberries may slow down and suppress the effects of a variety of cancers.

Plus, the antioxidants in raspberries, especially anthocyanins, may reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. This may reduce the chance of developing heart disease. That said, most of the evidence for the health benefits of raspberries is from test-tube studies, so more human-focused research is needed.

Learn about the health benefits of raspberries. Kale is one of the most nutritious greens on the planet and is rich in calcium, and vitamins A, K, and C. This is because red varieties of kale contain more anthocyanin antioxidants as well as several other antioxidants that give them their vibrant color.

Learn about the health benefits of kale. Also known as purple cabbage, red cabbage is rich in vitamins C, K, and A, and has a high antioxidant content. It, too, contains anthocyanins, which give it its color and may help reduce inflammation, protect against heart disease, and reduce the risk of certain cancers.

That said, the volume of antioxidants in red cabbage varies depending on how you cook it. Learn about the health benefits of red cabbage.

Beans are a diverse group of legumes that are inexpensive and healthy. They are also incredibly high in fiber, which can help keep your bowel movements regular. Beans are also one of the best vegetable sources of antioxidants, containing a particular antioxidant called kaempferol, which may help with things like reducing chronic inflammation and suppressing cancer growth.

That said, most of the research supporting the benefits of kaempferol has been in animals or test tubes, so more human-based studies are needed. Learn about the health benefits of beans. Beets, also known as beetroot , are a great source of fiber, potassium, iron, folate, and antioxidants.

These give beets their reddish color and have been linked to health benefits. For example, several test-tube studies have linked betalains to a lower risk of cancers in the colon and digestive tract.

Learn more about the health benefits of beats. Spinach is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and is incredibly low in calories. Learn about the health benefits of spinach. Spices such as ginger , turmeric , and garlic , as well as herbs such as rosemary , parsley , and sage , all contain a variety of minerals, vitamins, and important antioxidants.

Putting them on your food or in your cooking can help reduce oxidative stress, which can help reduce the chance of developing various health conditions.

Depending on the specific herb or spice, these diseases include high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, and diabetes.

Okra is a flowering plant with edible seed pods that grows best in warm and tropical climates.

Whip kale into smoothies or use it as a salad base. Transform shredded cabbage or broccoli or shaved Brussels sprouts into slaw. Enjoy sides of cauliflower rice. Or sautéed, grilled, or oven roasted broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts.

You can also incorporate these veggies into stir fries, soups, and stews. Catechins, the main antioxidants in green tea , are known to be preventative against a number of cancers, including lung, breast, esophageal, stomach, liver, pancreatic, and prostate cancer.

A research review concluded that green tea, which also contains polyphenol and flavonoid antioxidants, has anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic effects. In addition, green tea supports immune function and protects brain health.

Green tea may also provide small amounts of minerals, including copper, manganese, iron, zinc, magnesium, calcium, and potassium. However, the amounts vary depending on where the tea was grown.

In addition to sipping green tea hot or iced, the beverage can be used to steam vegetables or whole grain rice, or as a liquid in smoothies, overnight oats, soups, and sauces. Mushrooms contain an array of antioxidants, which have been shown to fend off aging and reduce chronic disease risk.

Mushrooms are also low in calories. One cup of whole white mushrooms provides 21 calories and one whole portabella mushrooms contains just Mushrooms are also the only non-animal source of naturally occurring vitamin D , particularly when exposed to ultraviolet UV light. Adequate vitamin D is important for bone health and muscle function and may protect against some cancers, lung diseases in children, heart and brain diseases, and all types of diabetes.

Blend mushrooms into smoothies or add them to tofu , chickpea, or egg scrambles, salads, soups, stir fries, curries, tacos, pasta dishes, and more. Mushrooms can even be incorporated into baked goods, like brownies, cupcakes, and rice pudding.

All nuts contain powerful antioxidants called polyphenols. Walnuts, pistachios, and pecans are specially high in these antioxidants per serving. The antioxidants in nuts help reduce inflammation and may play a role in bone and brain health.

A research review concluded that the increase in blood antioxidant levels from antioxidant-rich plant foods, including nuts, is tied to a reduced risk of all causes of death, including heart disease and cancer. Nuts also provide plant protein, healthful fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Nuts and nut butters can be incorporated into a range of dishes as an ingredient or garnish. Add nuts to smoothies, oatmeal or overnight oats, energy balls, salads, cooked veggies, stir fries, and slaw.

You can season nut butter with garlic, ginger, and chili pepper to make a savory sauce for steamed veggies and tofu. You can also scoop up nut butter with raw veggies or fresh fruit or layer it with melted dark chocolate for a nutritious treat. Extra virgin olive oil EVOO is the type of olive oil that contains the highest levels of polyphenols, the antioxidants known to reduce inflammation, slow the progression of cancer, heart and brain diseases, and reduce overall death risk.

Polyphenols found in EVOO have also been shown to fend off aging, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. The healthy fats in EVOO also help the body absorb the fat-soluble vitamins, A, D, E, and K, which play integral roles in vision, bone health, immune function, and blood clotting.

EVOO can be used in a variety of ways. Enjoy EVOO in salad dressings, slaws, and cool vegetable dishes like salad. Potatoes are bursting with antioxidants. Antioxidants in potatoes include carotenoids, flavonols, anthocyanins, and vitamins C and E. Baked potatoes can be loaded with healthy toppings, like steamed or sautéed veggies paired with hummus, olive tapenade, guacamole, pesto, tomato sauce, or seasoned tahini.

For an antioxidant-rich side dish, toss cooked, chilled potatoes with mustard, EVOO, and herbs. Pulses, which include beans, lentils, peas, and chickpeas , are high in antioxidants, including polyphenols and flavonoids.

These antioxidants have anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and anti-allergic properties. Pulses are also rich in protein, fiber, and minerals. Pulses are incredibly versatile. You can use chickpeas in a breakfast scramble or hummus, or oven-roast them and season them for a filling snack.

Tomatoes are rich in an antioxidant called lycopene. This compound, which gives tomatoes their color, has also been shown to reduce inflammation, protect heart health, prevent artery hardening, and reduce blood pressure.

Antioxidant-rich tomatoes have also been shown to protect brain health, reduce the risk of cancer and bowel diseases, and improve skin health, exercise recovery, and immune response. Cooked tomatoes are higher in lycopene versus raw tomatoes. You can consume tomatoes in a scramble or omelet at breakfast.

Toss pastas with tomato sauce or roast tomatoes in the over for a delicious side dish. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

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Potential health benefits of olive oil and plant polyphenols. Her strong background in nutrition science, sustainable food systems, and culinary education makes her exceptionally qualified to write about food that is good for us and the planet—while not sacrificing flavor.

Haley is a Wisconsin-based creative freelancer and recent graduate. She has worked as an editor, fact checker, and copywriter for various digital and print publications. Her most recent position was in academic publishing as a publicity and marketing assistant for the University of Wisconsin Press.

Ever purchased a food or beverage labeled "antioxidant-rich" without really knowing what that term means? You're not alone. According to the Harvard T. Chan School of Public Health , antioxidants only became well-known and highly sought-after by the general population in the s.

This was when researchers started to understand that the early stages of artery-clogging atherosclerosis, cancer, vision loss, and a host of other chronic conditions were closely correlated with free radical damage and oxidative stress—aka the very things that antioxidants help to prevent.

To understand antioxidants, it helps to know a bit about free radicals. Antioxidants are vitamins and other nutrients found in plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains that prevent or slow damage to cells in your body caused by these free radicals.

Keep in mind that antioxidants aren't substances themselves—rather, the term "antioxidant" refers to a chemical property exhibited by hundreds of different and non-interchangeable substances. Many of these we're highly familiar with, like vitamin C , vitamin E, selenium, and beta-carotene.

Others are less familiar: polyphenols, flavonoids, lipoic acid, glutathione, and so on. Most antioxidants occur naturally; they exist in foods to inhibit oxidation and protect against toxins in the local environment.

So if you're looking to up your antioxidant intake, you're in good shape—and luckily, there are plenty of delicious ingredients options for you to choose from. Here are the top antioxidant-rich foods, according to registered dietitians. FYI, none mention any pricey matcha-goji-turmeric-tonic wellness bowls.

Kidney beans and other beans are rich sources of antioxidants. Anthocyanins have been shown to reduce the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Believe it or not, artichoke hearts are one of the most antioxidant-rich vegetables, full of polyphenols like chlorogenic acid also found in coffee which may help the body better metabolize glucose and blood lipids.

Pecans are rich in the antioxidant vitamin E and have been shown to help lower levels of LDL bad cholesterol in the body, improving heart health. Pecans are also high in monounsaturated fat and contain a decent amount of fiber , making them one of the healthiest nuts you can eat.

She recommends topping air-popped popcorn with sea salt, rosemary, and thyme. According to Silberman, pumpkin seeds are a great source of protein, fiber, and antioxidants like vitamin E and carotenoids.

For the ultimate antioxidant-rich snack, Silberman says to try sliced apples topped with peanut butter, chia seeds, and cinnamon. Khoo HE, Azlan A, Tang ST, Lim SM. Anthocyanidins and anthocyanins: colored pigments as food, pharmaceutical ingredients, and the potential health benefits.

Food Nutr Res. doi: Meng S, Cao J, Feng Q, Peng J, Hu Y. Roles of chlorogenic Acid on regulating glucose and lipids metabolism: a review. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med.

Zhang HM, Zhao L, Li H, Xu H, Chen WW, Tao L. Research progress on the anticarcinogenic actions and mechanisms of ellagic acid. Cancer Biol Med. Guarneiri LL, Paton CM, Cooper JA.

Pecan-Enriched Diets Alter Cholesterol Profiles and Triglycerides in Adults at Risk for Cardiovascular Disease in a Randomized, Controlled Trial. J Nutr. Yashin A, Yashin Y, Xia X, Nemzer B.