Antioxidant-Rich Foods to Ward Off Illness

Whether you realize it or not, we are exposed to a barrage of harmful toxins and compounds on a daily basis. From the food we eat to the cosmetic products we use on our skin, harmful compounds known as “free radicals” are all around us.

Dark Chocolate

No, that's not a typo. Dark chocolate is actually a nutritious food that's loaded with antioxidants. In fact, it's ranked #3 on the National Institute of Aging's list of high-antioxidant foods, boasting a 21,000 ORAC score. But the key thing to remember is that dark chocolate, not milk or white, offers the highest level of antioxidants and lowest levels of processed sugar.

Goji Berries

The National Institute of Aging's #1 high-antioxidant food is goji berries, and for good reason: also known as wolfberry, this delicious small-sized berry is loaded with nutrients and antioxidants. Studies have shown that people who consume goji berries or products containing goji berry juice have a lower risk of developing infectious illness, attesting to its powerful effects.

Acai Berries

Found in the rainforests of Brazil, the acai berry is another antioxidant-rich fruit. It's prized by the locals for its rich flavor that consists of of chocolate and berries. But the real beauty of the acai berry is its antioxidant content. It contains powerful antioxidants in the form of polyphenols, offering protection from infectious disease and illness.

Blackberries

Notice a pattern here? Most berries contain high levels of antioxidants, and blackberries are no exception. It has a 5,300 rating on the ORAC score, indicating it's a powerful and nutritious free radical-fighting food. So the next time you have a craving for something sweet, grab a handful of blackberries instead of a processed snack like chips or a candy bar.

Pecans

Even pecans contain a large amount of antioxidants. But that's not the only reason to include them in your diet. Pecans are also loaded with more than 19 different vitamins and minerals, some of which include vitamin A, vitamin E, folic acid, magnesium, vitamin B and zinc, as well as protein and unsaturated fats.

These are just a few of the foods with the highest concentration of antioxidant. Regardless of which food you choose, you can rest assured knowing that it's supplementing your system with a healthy dose of free radical-fighting antioxidants. And by making them part of your regular diet, you'll reap the benefits of improved health.