What Are the Top Natural Sources of Antioxidants?

Antioxidants slow down the damage to your body's cells. Learn about some delicious sources of antioxidants.

Antioxidants are important substances because they stop certain unhealthy chemical reactions from happening inside our bodies. If these chemical reactions are not stopped by the presence of antioxidants, a destructive process known as oxidation can occur, resulting in the production of harmful free radicals. Antioxidants product the tissues inside our bodies, and help our bodies to repair.

Antioxidants occur naturally in fruits and vegetables throughout the world. The highest concentrations of antioxidants are found in berries (blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, strawberries, and raspberries), apples (they do help keep the doctor away!), pecans, pears, kale, spinach, plums, green and black tea, grapes, beans, walnuts, carrots, raw honey, coffee, oregano, and ground cinnamon. Even dark chocolate contains a healthy natural supply of antioxidants if used without so much milk and sweeteners.

In order to receive plenty of natural antioxidants, provide your body with a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables throughout the week. Always try to keep a colorful assortment of fruits and vegetables available for snacking. Diets rich in healthy antioxidants are linked to decreased risk of cancer and heart disease.