Antioxidants You Need To Add To Your Diet

If you are obsessed with skincare, you must use vitamin C serum in your routine because of its skin-brightening benefits. Board-certified dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare, Purvisha Patel told New York Post, "Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that prevents free radicles from breaking down collagen and elastin ... you can tell if your serum is working after a week of using," and the results should be "smoother, softer, and more glowy" skin.

Similarly, you also want to add antioxidants to your diet. It is essential to eat a balanced meal for your overall wellness. Though it can be challenging to eat well with easily accessible and less time-consuming fast food, it is vital to incorporate nutrients in your diet for longevity. But how do antioxidants help your health? Nutritionist and wellness chef, Meryl Pritchard, told Byrdie, "An antioxidant is a naturally occurring compound found in vitamins and minerals that combat free radicals in the body." But what is so wrong with free radicals? Free radicals are harmful to the body because they can damage your DNA structure, and if they exist in excess, they cause oxidative stress that can cause more serious diseases like heart diseases, type 2 diabetes, and cancer, per Healthline. That's why it's crucial to add antioxidants to your diet, and you can easily find them in the supermarket.

According to Mayo Clinic,  "Plant-based foods are the best sources [for antioxidants]. These include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, herbs and spices, and even cocoa... Almost all foods rich in antioxidants are also high in fiber, low in saturated fat and cholesterol, and an amazing source of minerals and vitamins."

Beta Carotene is an important antioxidant that supports eye health. When we eat foods rich in Beta Carotene, our body converts it into vitamin A. According to Healthline, "Beta carotene is a plant pigment that gives red, orange, and yellow vegetables their vibrant color." Food with a lot of beta carotene are usually brighter. According to WebMD, Vitamin E's antioxidant properties help prevent "cancer, heart disease, diabetes, cataracts." It is abundantly available in green leafy vegetables, eggs, and nuts. 

If you thought vitamin C was mainly for the skin, think again. Vitamin C is a antioxidant that supports you immune system, heart and brain, per Nutrition Center. Oranges, kiwi, and strawberries are excellent sources. It is good news for wine drinkers because it has a potent antioxidant called resveratrol that helps with brain health, inflammation, and blood pressure. According to Medical News Today, it also regulates metabolism and protects against ovarian issues, like cancer. However, the healthier sources are grapes, blueberries, and cranberries.