In the human body, molecules are broken down and destroyed through a process of oxidation brought about by free radicals. Free radicals are rogue cells, created by such things as environmental toxins, that attack and break down good cells. This can lead to premature aging and disease. Luckily, the human body has provided a defense against these free radicals; antioxidants are molecules that stop the process of oxidation and therefore combat aging and disease. While the human body does create its own antioxidants, additional antioxidants from outside sources are often needed to really protect good cells. Nature provides many of these extra antioxidants, and you can find them in many different kinds of foods.
Different types of antioxidant foods protect different types of cells in the human body. One of the most well-known antioxidant food groups, berries, contain Vitamin C and help promote energy storing cells. Eating a serving of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries every day can greatly boost your energy by destroying the free radicals that attack energy storing cells, and promote these cells growth and survival.
Other types of antioxidant foods can protect your skin from sun damage from the inside out. Foods rich in Vitamin A, such as carrots, broccoli, and tomatoes, will protect and nourish those delicate skin cells and help minimize damage and aging caused by the sun. Some fruits fall into this category as well, such as cantaloupe, peaches, and apricots.
Of course, not all antioxidant rich foods have to be consumed to be of great benefit to your health. For instance, applying olive oil to your skin can be just as good for you as eating it! Olive oil contains many antioxidants and is often used as a healthy alternative to fatty cooking oils. Not only is it good for your health, however, it is good for your skin! Remember, the skin is the body’s largest organ, and everything that is absorbed through the skin is taken into the body. Instead of slathering on harsh and artificial chemicals, try olive oil for a natural, organic alternative. Olive oil was used by the ancient Egyptian queen Cleopatra who was known for her stunning beauty. Not only will it moisturize skin, but its antioxidant properties will protect skin cells from destructive free radicals.
Although not as well-known for their antioxidant properties, legumes have some of the highest antioxidant counts around! The small red bean tops this list as it contains the highest antioxidant count per serving (which, in this case, is ½ cup). The red kidney bean and pinto bean are third and fourth on this list as well. Nuts are full of antioxidants as well; a handful of peanuts, almonds, cashews, or even a peanut butter sandwich can contribute to the body’s need for fighting free radicals.
While the process of cell destruction and creation is of course natural and an important part of the life cycle, a healthy balance must be achieved between the destructive free radicals and the constructive antioxidants. Since we expose our bodies to so many damaging environmental toxins on a daily basis, in the air we breathe, the processed food we eat, and the water we drink, it is necessary to supplement the antioxidants created by the body with those existing in nature’s foods. So eating healthy and antioxidant rich foods is necessary to achieving the beauty and health balance nature intended.