10 fruits with the highest antioxidants
Antioxidants are in many foods and drinks, but how many of us know exactly what they are? Simply put, antioxidants protect your body’s cells (1). Our body works to protect us from our environment on a daily basis -- putting antioxidants in our bodies is a way to make this job easier. Some examples of antioxidants are vitamins C, E, selenium, carotenoids, and flavonoids, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Now, you might be wondering what foods and drinks provide your body with more antioxidants. Luckily, we can start simply by focusing on one food group: fruit. Many fruits have high levels of antioxidants, so we’ve rounded up ten fruits with the highest antioxidants to add to your diet.
1. Blueberries
Blueberries have one of the highest antioxidant levels of any food or drink (2). So, make an effort to add more of this tasty, low-calorie fruit to your plate, bowl, smoothie, or wherever else you can think of.
2. Raspberries
Raspberries are loaded with antioxidants. If you eat one cup of them, you’ll already have had about half of the recommended Vitamin C for the day (3). Plus, they go great with yogurt and granola.
3. Strawberries
Some of the antioxidants in strawberries are ones linked to fighting off bacteria, as well as helping prevent cancer (4). Go ahead, add some strawberries to your ice cream sundae.
4. Goji berries
Goji berries are typically found in Asia, but there are plenty of ways to enjoy them in the United States, too (5). This fruit has been studied for its natural medicinal effects, so make sure to grab some next time you’re at the store (6).
5. Guava
The antioxidants in guavas can help cure cancer cells, as well as helping your skin stay looking youthful and radiant (7). It’s no wonder why so many skincare products use guava!
6. Lemon
Lemons are chock full of Vitamin C, which is true for all citrus fruits. Lemons are easy to add to your diet since you can use lemon juice to enhance flavor in most savory meals.
7. Orange
Yep, another citrus fruit on the list! Vitamin C is great for boosting your immune system, so it’s always a good idea to eat some extra citrus during flu season (7).
8. Avocado
Something special about avocados is that they can actually help you absorb more antioxidants (8). Just because you eat or drink nutrients, it doesn’t mean your body is absorbing and making use of them. Time for some avocado toast!
9. Apples
Make sure you don’t pass on the peel when it comes to apples. Apples are filled with heart disease reducing antioxidants, and many of them are found in the peel (9).
10. Cranberries
The only fruit with more antioxidants than cranberries is blueberries, making their antioxidant level one to care about. Cranberries can be enjoyed dried or fresh, which makes them versatile, too.
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