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It’s more than just a buzz word in health: antioxidants have major benefits backed by science.
Foods that are rich in antioxidants have the power to go to battle against free radicals that damage cells and can contribute to a range of problems that include obesity and diseases like diabetes and cancer. Whereas processed foods that are loaded with sugar can damage cells, these four foods are like soldiers protecting your cells, keeping you health, and helping with weight loss.
First up is a veggie that doesn’t get as much attention as broccoli or spinach, but is a nutritional star in its own right: artichokes. A wealth of antioxidants, artichokes are also an incredible source of vitamins C and K, folate, magnesium, and potassium. Find a delish recipe that includes the petals and hearts — there’s nutritional value in both.
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Figs
Blue Ribbon Orchard Choice Organic Mission Figs ($4.11)
Figs are a plant-based food that are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and soluble fiber. If fresh figs aren't ripe in your neck of the woods, try adding a handful of dry figs like Blue Ribbon Orchard Choice Mission Figs to your daily diet (they taste great mixed with almonds and walnuts). Packed with vitamins B6, K, and A and minerals like calcium, potassium, iron, and magnesium, just one or two figs will keep your digestive system humming.
Grapefruit
Dole Red Grapefruit Sunrise Fruit Juice Cups ($2.24)
Starting your day with a slice of grapefruit is a great way to boost your metabolism and burn fat (the fruit is known to reduce belly fat and cholesterol levels). With phytochemicals like lycopene and liminoids, as well as plenty of vitamins C and A and fiber, grapefruit is really effective at protecting your cells and keeping your immune system healthy. If you struggle to find time in the morning to cut up a grapefruit, try packing Dole Red Grapefruit Cups in your bag and enjoy this sweet-tart snack anywhere you roam.
Watermelon
With plenty of antioxidants like vitamin C and lycopene, watermelon is lauded by health experts for its ability to prevent cancer-causing free radicals from building up in the body. Watermelon even has something called citrulline, which is an amino acid that can lower blood pressure. And we haven't even touched upon how many vitamins and minerals this juicy fruit contains — or how great it is at hydrating your system and helping to flush out toxins, which can contribute to faster weight loss.
