6 Antioxidant Rich Foods That Helps In Fighting Free Radical Damage

Stress, unhealthy food, solar radiation, pollution, smoking, consumption of drugs or alcohol can form dangerous amounts of free radicals that damage the DNA and causes aging and deadly diseases, like cancer. Free radicals are dangerous molecules that accumulate in your body and cause serious health conditions.

Vitamins C and E, also known as antioxidants, are proven to protect the body against dangerous free radicals. They neutralize the free radicals and prevent them from causing further damage. Vitamin E is a plentiful fat-soluble antioxidant within the body and is among the prime defenders against oxidation, which is the main cause of free radical damage. Here are 6 antioxidant-rich foods that fight free radical damage.

# Apricots

Apricots are delicious fruits that are rich in vitamin A and C. They also contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps in fighting free radicals.1 Dried apricots are a type of traditional dried fruit. Studies show that when apricots are dried, the relative concentration of nutrients is increased, with vitamin A, vitamin E, potassium and iron having daily values above 25 percent. Lycopene is the same antioxidant found in tomatoes although in smaller quantities.

# Watermelon

Though summer is the best time to eat watermelons, they are good to be consumed all year round. They are high in water content and are rich in antioxidants. The chief antioxidant found in watermelons is lycopene, which is also found in tomatoes, watermelons, and apricots. Watermelon, rich in antioxidants and other bioactive components, may be a viable method to improve cardiovascular disease risk factors through reduced oxidative stress.

Besides the antioxidants, they also provide many vitamins and minerals with each serving. It is effective in reducing the extent of cancer insurgence, cardiovascular disorders, diabetes and macular diseases. Experts suggest that watermelons with deeper tones of red hold a higher concentration of lycopene.

# Cherries

Cherries, along with blueberries, are considered as one of the best fruits for fighting free radical damage as they have some of the highest levels of antioxidants per ounce. The most abundant antioxidant is anthocyanin, a compound that is effective in fighting free radicals.

In many studies, cherries have shown relatively high antioxidant activity and other anti-carcinogenic effects. The best way to consume them is to select only organic cherries and eating them raw or drinking raw cherry juice, which also offers the same antioxidant benefits.

# Spinach

Spinach is a leafy vegetable that contains high levels of protein and fiber and is renowned for its antioxidant, beta-carotene. Studies have found that the antioxidant activity of spinach may be an effective way to ameliorate high fat and cholesterol diet-induced oxidative stress.

The antioxidants in spinach resist oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals, inhibiting cell membrane damage, and suppressing lipid peroxidation, thus preventing the onset of chronic diseases. It can be consumed in many ways such as smoothies, salads, or in a sandwich.

# Raspberries

Raspberries are as tasty as they look and their high antioxidant content helps in reducing free radical damage. Their high concentrations of phenols are known to have anti-cancer properties. Raspberries are often the main ingredient in anti-inflammatory diets and are effective in reducing joint paint associated with arthritis.

But their capacity to eliminate free radical damage is by far their best quality. Raspberries are rich in phenolic phytochemicals. Studies show that the antioxidant activity of raspberry is directly related to the total amount of phenolics and flavonoids found in them.

# Broccoli

Like other foods in this list, broccoli is also a rich source of powerful antioxidants. Broccoli has gained popularity as a health-promoting food as it naturally contains high levels of bioactive phytochemicals such as glucosinolates, phenolic compounds, vitamin C, and mineral nutrients. Broccoli has also been found to exhibit antioxidant activity that prevents oxidative stress related to many diseases.

A diet rich in broccoli helps in the prevention of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular and carcinogenic pathologies, and breast and prostate cancers. Since it is also rich in fiber, it promotes healthy bowel movements and keeps your digestive tract clean.