What exactly are antioxidants? The simple explanation is that they are substances that help to either prevent or delay certain kinds of cellular damage caused by free radicals that affect biological life.
You can be exposed to free radicals from a variety of environmental sources, ranging from pollution to sunlight.
When out of control, free radicals can trigger oxidative stress, which occurs when free radicals exceed the body’ ability to deal with them. This can lead to cellular damage.
Scientists believe oxidative stress is a factor in a number of diseases, including cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s, to name a few.
It’s easy to see, then, why something that counteracts oxidative stress is a big deal.
So where do you get antioxidants?
Antioxidants include vitamins, like vitamin C and E; and carotenoids, like beta-carotene, lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin.
You can find these in a wide range of food sources. Fruits and vegetables in particular are an excellent source of antioxidants.
If you want to increase the amount of antioxidants in your diet, check out of the below foods that are some of the richest in antioxidants per serving, according ot a USDA official study.
21 Foods with the Most Antioxidants Per Serving
- Small red beans
- Wild blueberries
- Red kidney beans
- Pinto beans
- Cultivated blueberries
- Cranberries
- Artichokes
- Blackberries
- Prunes
- Raspberries
- Strawberries
- Red delicious apples
- Granny smith apples
- Pecans
- Sweet cherries
- Black plums
- Russet potatoes
- Black beans
- Plums
- Gala apples
- Dark leafy greens
Along with the foods listed above, you may also consider antioxidant supplements, like those from Core Med Science, Terry Naturally, and Pure Encapsulations.
Liposomal Glutathione Orange Citrus – Core Med Science
Liposomal Glutathione Orange Citrus and Liposomal Glutathione Softgels from Core Med Science are potent antioxidant supplements. You can take this formula in as a liquid or in capsule form. Both are formulated with 500 milligrams of glutathione per serving.
Glutathione is often referred to as a one of the best antioxidants for fighting oxidative stress. Liposomal Glutathione Orange Citrus is a liquid supplement that is easy to take with a dropper.
Liposomal Glutathione Softgels contains a similar formula but in a softgel formula that may be preferable for some people.
These supplements may support clearer thinking, energy, skin health, exercise performance and recovery, and decrease inflammation.
Clinical OPC Extra Strength French Grape Seed Extract 400 mg – Terry Naturally
Each serving of Clinical OPC Extra Strength French Grape Seed Extract 400 mg from Terry Naturally delivers 400 milligrams of VX1, a unique French grape seed extract that is standardized for only small-sized OPCs. What this means is that it’s formulated to ensure maximum absorption in the body, helping you to access its many potential benefits, including support for cardiovascular health, healthy blood sugar levels, immunity, cholesterol, weight management, blood pressure, liver function, focus, concentration, and more.
Quercetin – Pure Encapsulations
Quercetin from Pure Encapsulations is a bioflavonoid (a water-soluble plant pigment) that the body cannot produced on its own. Quercetin helps diminish the release of histamine in the body, and it also provides antioxidant support and promotes overall health by protecting and defending lipids from oxidation. This helps support capillary health, strength, and integrity.
What is your favorite way to get your antioxidants?
Try any of these foods and supplements and see if they make a difference in your life!
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
