Our bodies require oxygen to exist yet the use of oxygen in our bodies causes oxidative damage. When our bodies use oxygen, free radicals are created. A free radical is a molecule that is missing one or more electrons. These molecules are greatly volatile and can cause a enormous amount of injury. Antioxidants are a group of nutrients found in food that are recognized to prevent or slow down the effects of oxidative harm in our bodies.

An antioxidant will come in and stick to a free radical by donating the absent electron. Most of the wholesome foods found in nature are loaded in antioxidants and including these foods in your diet can boost up your immune system and help to put off disease such as heart disease and cancer and other troubles characteristically associated with aging.

Berries are some of the supreme antioxidant foods in the world. Blueberries, blackberries, cranberries and grapes and cherries are all particularly high in antioxidants. Food is calculated for antioxidant capability by what is called the ORAC or Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity scale. All of the berries have a very high ORAC level but the concrete food that has the highest ORAC level is the acai berry. There are a few things that rank above the acai berry on the ORAC scale such as ground cloves and ground cinnamon but none are in fact foods but instead spices and such. The acai berry surpasses every other actual food.

Other fruits that possess high ORAC levels are the citrus fruits, like oranges, grapefruits, lemons and limes and the tropical fruits such as kiwi, mango and papaya. Pears, peaches, plums, apricots and apples are also tremendous sources.

Many of the common vegetables are extremely elevated in antioxidants. Spinach, Kale, Swiss chard, dandelion greens and other greens are exceptional, along with the cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts.

Pumpkins are very superior in beta-carotene, which is a material that converts to vitamin A in our bodies. Beta-carotene is a very notable nutrient but it can be dangerous, specially for smokers, to take beta-carotene in supplement form. The top way to get this critical nutrient is through the diet. Most orange foods, like pumpkin, carrots, sweet potatoes and squash provide an generous quantity.

By consuming a multicolored nutritional regime you will be sure to receive an profuse supply of antioxidants. Most of the vibrant and colorful foods found in nature are plentiful in antioxidants. Berries are deep purple and red. Pumpkins and carrots are brilliant orange. Spinach and broccoli are deep green. Tomatoes and watermelon are red. Color is a big clue to antioxidant facility.

Research continues on antioxidants but it is showing ever more benefits for our fitness. Superior immune function can inhibit disease like cancers and heart disease and also stop common ailments connected with aging such as macular degeneration and Alzheimer’s disease.