Antioxidants: Did You Know These Foods Were Chock Full of 'Em?
Antioxidants Can Be Found In Unexpected Places
Our bodies need antioxidants. Many serious illnesses are thought to be triggered by oxidative stress. Antioxidants can help reduce this oxidative stress as well as the risk of developing the associated diseases, such as heart disease, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. But where can you get your daily serving of antioxidants? Especially since vitamins don't seem to be as powerful as we all thought? These foods may surprise you...
Pop That Cork
You're not dreaming. Wine is actually beneficial to your health. And it's not just red wine that has antioxidant benefits. White wine also contains them.
Baby Food
It's good news for babies, but it's also good news for those few adults who actually enjoy the occasion jar of baby food. Think I'm joking? I'm not. Many celebrities have been known to pop open a jar of baby food as a low-calorie healthy snack. And many baby foods are filled with healthy antioxidants. Applesauce, peaches and bananas seem to be the most powerful.
Chocolate Lovers Rejoice
How can something so good be good for you? It is. Baking chocolate has plenty of antioxidants. However, not all chocolate is created equal. You'll get much more power from dark, unsweetened bakers squares than you would from a milk chocolate candy bar.
Hummus
Hummus lovers, I've got some good news for you. Hummus that is made with chickpeas, garlic and tofu is a triple-threat. All three are antioxidant rich. Dip some 7-grain bread into it and you've got a meal that's an antioxidant powerhouse.
Baked Potatoes
Forget that advice about avoiding potatoes. While French fries definitely aren't a good idea, a healthy baked potato is a great source of antioxidant benefits. Add some garlic and season it lightly and you've got a healthy snack or side dish.
And that's just the beginning. There are dozens of foods that are antioxidant rich. Check out this listing of healthy antioxidant foods.
So the next time someone tells you that you can't possibly eat enough foods to get all of the antioxidants your body needs, take it with a grain of salt (or Tamari, if you prefer) and let them know there may be more anti-oxidant rich foods than they realize.