Antioxidant Rich Foods

Here I will review a number of antioxidant rich foods. I have examined the numerous anti-aging health benefits of antioxidants elsewhere on this site. This information focuses on specific antioxidant rich foods. I will show you which foods contain which key antioxidants. You can learn about the specific health benefits associated with each antioxidant by clicking on its name the first time it appears on the page. You can start realizing those benefits now by adding these foods to your diet regularly.

Berries

Blackberries – Blackberries contain high amounts of proanthocyanidins, anthocyanins, and Ellagic acid.

Blueberries – Blueberries are one of the very best sources of Proanthocyanidins, second only to the Black chokeberry (and I, for one, had never heard of a black chokeberry before researching this material). Blueberries are also very rich in anthocyanins. These facts that blueberries contain high levels of these powerful flavonoid antioxidants puts them at or near the top of the list of antioxidant rich foods.

Cranberries – Cranberries contain high levels of the important antioxidant Ellagic acid.

Raspberries - Excellent sources of Proantocyanidins and Ellagic acid. Raspberries, especially black raspberries, are also very high in anthocyanins.

Strawberries – Strawberries are one of the best sources of Ellagic acid.

Fruit

Cherries – Cherries are a very rich source of anthocyanins.

Citrus Fruit - Everyone knows that citrus fruit are a great source of Vitamin C, but did you know that they also contain many different flavonoid antioxidants?

Pomegranates - Ellagic acid found in pomegranate has been effect in helping to lower high blood pressure.

Red Grapes - Red Grapes are an incredibly antioxidant rich food. The skins of red grapes contain high amounts of resveratrol and other flavonoid antioxidants as well as quercetin and selenium.

Tomatoes - Lypopene is found in high quantities in tomatoes and has been link in reducing the occurrence of prostate cancer, colon cancer and breast cancer. (Yes, technically tomatoes are a fruit, not a vegetable in case you were wondering.)

Vegetables

Spinach - The antioxidant Lutein is found in spinach and has been shown to reduce the possibility of cataracts and macular degeneration. It is also a good source of alpha lipoic acid, a very omportant antioxidant in its own right. Alpha lipoic acid has also been shown to increase Glutathione levels. Glutathione which is one of the main palyers in the antioxidant network is sometimes referred to as the 'Master Antioxidant'.

Carrots - Several studies have suggested that beta-carotene may reduce the risk of heart disease and the risks of breast cancer, cervical cancer and other various forms of cancer. Also, beta carotene has been well documented to reduce cataracts and macular degeneration.

Garlic - Allicin is the antioxidant found in garlic that studies suggest reduces the risk of heart disease. Allicin has also been effect in helping to lower high blood pressure and reduces the risk of developing atherosclerosis. Garlic is also contains selenium which is an important mineral co-factor.

Onions (Red and Yellow Only) - Like garlic, onions also contain Allicin and selenium. In addition, they also contain quercetin.

Spices

Cinnamon - Cinnamon contains phenolic compounds with potent antioxidant activity. In addition to its antioxidant activity, cinnamon also helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

Grains, Nuts and Legumes

Sesame seeds - Phytate found in sesame seeds and sesame oil have been associated with a reduction of the incidences of various cancers including stomach and breast cancers. The substance sesamin may also help recycle vitamin E.

Black beans, Pinto beans and Red Kidney beans – They are all excellent sources of flavonoid antioxidants, especially anthocyanins. According to research performed by Michigan State University, a diet high in beans has been linked to lower rates of heart disease and diabetes, as well as lower rates of breast, prostate and colon cancers.

Soybeans - Soybeans are another antioxidant rich food. Genistein works as an antioxidant in soybeans and other soy based products. Studies suggest that genistein can reduce the risk of heart disease and has been linked to reducing the occurrence of various cancers including prostate cancer, colon cancer and breast cancer.

Sweet Potatoes - Beta Carotene and Vitamin C found in sweet potatoes has been shown to reduce the risks of heart disease, colon cancer and developing atherosclerosis.

Whole Grains - Vitamin E is present in whole grains. Phytic acid is another antioxidant found in whole grains and has been linked to reducing the risks of colon cancer and breast cancer.

Additional Resources for Anti-aging Nutrition and Antioxidants

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