The 15 foods highest in antioxidants

Food plays avital role in health, which is why it is essential to follow a varied, balanced and healthy diet to keep your health in peak condition. It is important to have a good supply of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.

But it is also essential to consume antioxidants. External factors and free radicals cause oxidation and cell damage, leading to ageing, some types of cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, etc. Antioxidants are crucial to combat these problems.

Antioxidants are present in food, with the highest content being found in:

Salmon

Salmon contains astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant that supports healthy cells, skin and eyesight, among other things.

Including salmon in your diet a couple of times a week will help to keep your skin younger and healthier.

Olive oil

Olive oil is high in monounsaturated fatty acids as well as antioxidants, such as the polyphenol hydroxytyrosol, which helps to combat cell ageing, prevent cardiovascular diseases and lower levels of “bad” cholesterol in the blood.

Pulses

These have great antioxidant and nutritional properties and are therefore highly recommended for weight loss diets.

Garlic

This contains antioxidants like allicin and quercetin. It is a great anti-inflammatory and it helps to prevent cholesterol. It is also considered a natural antibiotic that can kill certain strains of harmful bacteria.

Cinnamon

The antioxidant capacity of cinnamon is among the highest, as it containspolyphenols, phenolic acid and flavonoids. Eating it aids digestion and improves insulin sensitivity.

Broccoli

High in vitamins like vitamin C and minerals. It contains sulphoraphane, a phytonutrient that lowers the risk of many types of cancer.

Tomatoes

The antioxidants contained in tomatoes, such as lycopene, protect your health and combat ageing. Consuming it every day lowers cholesterol levels and prevents some cancers.

Artichokes

These are great antioxidants because they are high in phytonutrients and polyphenols. They act as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, antimicrobial and antiviral agents. They have even been linked to improved memory.

Carrots

Beta-carotene is the antioxidant that promotes vitamin A production, which is beneficial for eyesight and preventing diseases such as cancer. It is also good for treating gastric conditions.

Berries

These are the ultimate antioxidant foods: blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, etc. They act as cardiovascular protectors and help to control high blood pressure.

Grapes

These are rich in polyphenols and flavonoids. They help to control cholesterol and blood pressure. They also containresveratrol, an antioxidant that prevents colon and breast cancer.

Pomegranates

A fruit rich in tanninswith astringent properties, and high in potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and zinc, vitamins A, C, E and folic acid, so it helps toflush out fluids and treat hypertension and high uric acid levels. It also has high antioxidant power thanks to its polyphenols, punicalagins and vitamins, and it is beneficial for skin and hair, with anti-ageing properties. It also supports the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

Nuts

Walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, pistachios and pine nuts provide a good source of antioxidants such as quercetin. They help to improve your blood circulation and control your cholesterol.

Dark chocolate

Cocoa contains antioxidants such as flavonoids and polyphenols and stimulates the production of endorphins, the feel-good and happiness hormones. To enjoy these benefits, you should eat chocolate with at least 70% cocoa and in moderate amounts due to its high calorie content.

Green tea

This has high concentrations of polyphenols that increase fat oxidation. It also prevents cancer and, if consumed daily, helps you tolose weight.