Our bodies are constantly working to keep us safe. Antioxidants act as a defense team for our body. They protect us from free radicals, chemicals that can harm our cells. Free radicals are made when food is broken down into energy, after exercise, or from exposure to environmental factors.
Free radicals can be harmful in very large amounts in the body. They can damage cells and genetic material. Our bodies know how to fight off free radicals naturally. However, we can increase antioxidants in our body through the foods we eat.
Foods/beverages containing antioxidants:
- Vegetables: broccoli, leafy greens, bell peppers, asparagus, beets, tomatoes, sweet potato, cauliflower, snow peas, spinach, garlic, onions.
- Fruits: berries, cantaloupe, grapefruit, apples, grapes, oranges, mangoes, papaya, peaches, watermelon, kiwi, cherries.
- Protein/nourishing fats: nuts, avocado, chia seeds, flax seeds, beans, lentils, salmon, sunflower seeds.
- Whole grains: barley, brown rice, farro, oats, quinoa, whole wheat flour, buckwheat.
- Other: coffee/espresso, dark chocolate, tea (black or green), extra virgin olive oil.
Information gathered and adapted from:
https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/antioxidants/
Triple Berry Antioxidant Smoothie
Ingredients
1 cup frozen blueberries
1 cup strawberries, fresh or frozen
1 cup raspberries, fresh or frozen
1/2 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
1 cup skim milk (or any liquid you choose)
2 Tbsp honey
Directions
1. Add all ingredients to a blender. Blend until smooth.
Recipe makes: 2 servings
Nutrition Information:
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Recipe adapted from:
https://cookeatshare.com/recipes/immune-booster-smoothie-867179
