Every day, your body is exposed to substances that can damage cells, including free radicals. These are unstable molecules formed during normal metabolism and increased by pollution, smoking, ultraviolet light, and some chemicals. If free radicals overwhelm your defenses, they can contribute to aging and many chronic diseases.
Antioxidants are compounds that help neutralize free radicals. Your body makes some on its own, and you also get them from food. Well known antioxidants include vitamins C and E, beta carotene, and selenium, but there are hundreds of other protective plant compounds such as flavonoids and polyphenols.
Instead of chasing individual antioxidant supplements, it is usually safer and more effective to focus on antioxidant rich foods. These include:
- Berries of all kinds
- Leafy greens and colorful vegetables
- Nuts and seeds
- Beans and lentils
- Green and black tea
- Coffee in moderation
When you build meals around a variety of plant foods, you automatically get a wide mix of antioxidants working together. Very high dose supplements are rarely necessary and can sometimes interfere with medications or have unintended effects, so talk with your healthcare provider before taking large doses.
An antioxidant rich diet won't make you invincible, but it is one of the simplest and most enjoyable ways to support your body's natural defense systems.
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