Antioxidants are very important for the well-being of your body. They aid the body’s immune system by preventing the oxidation of molecules, which in turn trigger chain reactions that are unhealthy for the body. They protect the body from the harmful effects of oxidation caused by free radicals. This is achieved through three ways; blocking formation of free radicals, acting as scavengers and being substrate.

Free radicals are produced by the immune cells to combat disease. However, when the free radicals surpass the optimal quantity in the cells, they become a liability to the body’s immune system. Antioxidants help to boost the body’s immune system by picking up these free radicals. Immunity is also enhanced through cellular metabolism, gene activation and transcription.

Your body benefits tremendously from the presence of antioxidants. They slow down the aging process. They act as scavengers by picking up free radicals associated with aging related conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. The aging process slows down considerably when the free radicals reduce to the optimal level. Free radicals are also associated with cardiovascular diseases and cancer.

Foods rich in antioxidants abound in the market. These include fruits and vegetables. Whole grain foods are also rich sources of antioxidants. Studies indicate that populations residing in the Mediterranean area suffer a low mortality rate caused by cancer or cardiovascular diseases, because of their diet. Their diet, rich in antioxidants consists of vegetables and fruits, whole grains and legumes.

Tomatoes are also rich in antioxidants. They contain the chemical lycopene, which is a strong antioxidant. It becomes even more effective after cooking. The same chemical is also present in water melons. Another source of anti oxidants is the red berry. Most fruits that are red or purple in color have high antioxidant properties. Other berries such as the blue berry, straw berry and rasp berries are equally beneficial. Apart from berries, buy apples and grapes also. They provide similar benefits as the berries

Next time you go shopping, remember to buy as many vegetables as you can. These are high in antioxidant content. These include dark green vegetables, spinach, broccoli and kale. Endeavor to have a vegetable in every meal you eat. Beans play an important role in the body. They are not only effective antioxidants but also a rich source of protein and fiber. Fiber is important for the digestive system. Included in this category are carrots, pinto bean and red bean.

Instead of eating sugary snacks such as cakes and white milk chocolate, treat yourself to dark chocolate. Dark chocolate bears a stark contrast in composition with other snacks in the market. It contains less sugar and is a more natural form of snack. It also has strong antioxidant properties.

Red wine and green teas also contain strong antioxidant properties. Herbal tea, spices, ginger and black tea bear similar properties. Additional sources of antioxidants are fish, shellfish, red meat and chicken.