What are antioxidants?
During normal metabolic activities, cells produce free radicals. Another source of free radicals may also be pollution, cigarette smoke, radiation, medication, etc. High level of these free radicals leads to oxidative stress, the main cause of damage to the cell membrane, proteins, and DNA. Antioxidants are substances that counteract oxidative stress to protect cells from damage by free radicals. Antioxidants are either naturally produced by the body or externally provided by food or supplements. Different nutrient antioxidants are Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Beta-carotene, Lycopene, Selenium, Flavonoids, Omega-3, and Omega-6 fatty acids.
What fruits are antioxidants?
- Berries High Antioxidants
What are the benefits of eating blueberries?
Blueberries are one of the most antioxidant-rich berries known. Blueberries contain around twenty-five types of anthocyanins. The deep blue-purple appearance of blueberries is due to flavonoids. Besides these, it contains other health-beneficial substances such as polyphenols.
Regular consumption of blueberries improves heart health by reducing blood pressure, arterial stiffness, and improving cholesterol profile. Antioxidants in blueberries help to improve memory by reducing oxidative stress in brain cells.
What are the benefits of strawberries?
Strawberries are rich in antioxidants. It contains anthocyanins, procyanidins, ellagic acid, ellagitannins, and vitamin C. The bright red colour of strawberries is due to the presence of anthocyanin. Both its flesh and seeds contain procyanidins.
Antioxidants in strawberries help lower cholesterol and reduce blood pressure. It also has anti-inflammatory properties. Regular consumption of strawberries lowers the risk of Alzheimer’s. Polyphenols present in strawberries protect skin from UV radiation as well as improve skin quality by supporting collagen synthesis.
What are the benefits of eating raspberries?
Raspberries contain antioxidants such as ellagic acid, anthocyanins, and quercetin. Like all other antioxidants, it neutralises oxidative stress and promotes heart and vascular health. Studies reveal that raspberry antioxidants may protect from colon, liver, and breast cancers. It can reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
What is the benefit of eating blackberries?
Blackberries provide anthocyanins, ellagic acids, and flavonoids. Anthocyanins give deep pigmentation to the skin and contain various health benefits. It improves cardiovascular health and supports healthy cholesterol levels. Antioxidants in blackberries regulate neuron communication and help to reduce brain inflammation. It improves overall gut health. 100 grams of blackberries include 43 kcal of energy, 9.6 grams of carbohydrates, 4.9 grams of sugars, 5.3 grams of dietary fibres, 1.4 grams of protein, 0.5 grams of fat, 21 mg of vitamin C, 19.8 mcg of vitamin K, 162 mg of potassium, 00.6 mg of manganese, 29 mg of calcium, 1.2 mg of vitamin E.
Antioxidants play a vital role in cellular detoxification. This vital compound protects cells from oxidative stress. The human body produces some antioxidants; supplementing with antioxidant-rich foods helps prevent cellular damage. Various berries can be a beneficial natural antioxidant supplement.