Wednesday, February 6, 2013

10 of my favorite antioxidant-rich foods


Walnuts- This heart healthy nut has a high amount omega 3 fatty acids. Walnuts are rich in fiber, B vitamins, magnesium, and antioxidants such as Vitamin E. They are also one of the best plant sources of protein.

Cloves- This nutrient-dense spice has, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anesthetic properties. Cloves are very high in anti-oxidants and can easily be added to a number of dishes. Sprinkle on apple sauce or cook into an aromatic tea.


Cranberries- Second only to blueberries, these little red powerhouses are teaming with antioxidants. Though they are considered a 'holiday' food, cranberries are available all year round. Add them to smoothies, cook them with your oatmeal or into a muffins.




Pomegranates-This powerful red fruit is very high in antioxidants. Pomegranates can also help to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. The best part? They are sweet like candy.

Aduki Beans- Aduki beans have one of the highest antioxidant level of all beans. High in fiber, these little red beans are also an excellent source of B vitamins. A great detox tool, aduki beans contain an enzyme called molybdenum which is crucial for lever detoxification.
Artichokes -surpisingly high in antioxidants. Known to stimulate and improve liver function by increasing bile production which helps with liver purification and protection.

Green Tea-More than a decade's worth of research about green tea's health benefits has shown it's potential to fight disease, burn fat, and protect against neuro-degenerative diseases. The high levels of antioxidants are readily bioavailable, so are easily utilized by the body.

Raspberries  have significantly high levels of phenolic flavonoid phytochemicals. Scientific studies show that the antioxidant compounds in these berries have potential health benefits against cancer, aging, inflammation, and neuro-degenerative diseases. 

Kale: The King of Greens. Kale is on a scale all of it’s own. Pound for pound it is one  the most nutrient dense foods on the planet. It has high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, anti-oxidants and phytonutrients. This fiber in this powerhouse also helps to bind and neutralize bile toxins which helps to keep cholesterol levels low.

Blueberries are little blue superstars. They have the highest antioxidant level of all fruit. Blueberries are low in sugar and have been shown to improve both memory and metabolism.

Dark Chocolate-And, Drumroll please! My favorite, dark chocolate. By dark chocolate I am talking about real dark chocolate. At least 70% Cacao. I usually use it in the form of Raw Cacao which can be added to any number of recipes like Nut Milk Hot Chocolate, Vegan Chocolate Pie, or Chocolate Cashew Spread. Dark chocolate is rich in cell-protecting anti-oxidants, as well as containing a wide variety of vitamins and minerals. This wonderful bean not only makes everything taste good, it makes us feel good too.

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