It is almost certain that you are aware of the benefits of antioxidant foods, and it is likely that you have discussed them with your doctor, who may have given you some relevant information. Alternatively you may have been told by a family member, or an acquaintance, just how good the benefits are expected to be. Everybody knows that it is preferable to get fresh food, but if you bear in mind that you ought to be seeking antioxidant foods as well, you won’t be too wide of the mark, because you will then be on the right track to controlling free radical damage. Antioxidant foods are obtainable naturally from fruit and vegetables, that nature might seem to have purposely supplied to help us to avoid free radical damage.

Antioxidants are known to limit the effect of oxidation in the body induced by free radicals, or to put it more succinctly, antioxidants shield you from free radical damage. Make no mistake about it that antioxidants guard you from several of the most serious diseases, including heart disease, cancer, strokes, arthritis, and many others. Some people even believe that an adequate supply of antioxidants in their diets may delay the onset of old age! You may understandably wonder just where the dreadful free radicals come from, but the truth is that they might not be as bad as you think. Free radicals may also assist our bodies to fight germs, so it is a surplus of free radicals that causes health disorders, and not a balanced amount.

High fat diets can considerably add to free radical production, and it is generally accepted that saturated fat causes free radical problems. However, the situation is complicated as not all fats are overloaded with free radicals. A sensible way to begin would be to seek to steer clear of saturated fats, including animal meat, and all fried foods. There are different fats, such as fish oils, which recent studies indicate are generally helpful, but trans fats, frequently used in commercial cakes, biscuits etc. are banned in some countries.

Food containing antioxidants is essential to your good health, but if you need further protection you could think about extra vitamins. You would normally get sufficient Vitamin C from your fruit and vegetable intake, but try to take Vitamin E as well. You will find Vitamin E in walnuts, almonds, peanuts, and some vegetables. The vitamins are particularly good if they are contained within the foods you eat. Supplements are available, in a variety of forms, but are best considered under professional guidance.

One of the most beneficial antioxidant foods obtainable are wild American blueberries. If you know of any place you can get any, or better still, where to gather your own, don’t hesitate in staking your claim! You should not be too concerned if blueberries are not available because the majority of other fruit and vegetables have a high level of antioxidants. By this time you will know that between 5 – 9 portions of fruit and vegetables a day is what you should aim to include in your diet. Make it your personal plan to err towards seven, eight, or nine portions, and you will then be well on your way to a natural health, free radical controlling life. Make it your business to find out which fruits and vegetables are the best for antioxidants, and you may even discover that they are among your favorite foods.