Health care professionals recommend patients embrace a lifestyle that includes exercise and healthy food to maintain wellness. This is partly because certain products contain particles like antioxidants, which help your body stay healthy. If you’ve heard of this term before, you may have many questions about it. To help you answer them, here’s all you need to know about how antioxidants work and where to find them.

What Are Free Radicals?

Free radicals damage the cells and are linked to aging, illnesses, cancer, and heart disease. They can build up in your system due to environmental factors such as air pollution, radiation, or excessive sun exposure. Lifestyle habits like alcohol consumption, smoking cigarettes, and a high intake of saturated fats may also increase the volume of free radicals in your body. These particles are missing electrons, which make them unstable and harmful.

What Are Antioxidants?

Antioxidants are special molecules that naturally fight free radicals. They supply electrons to them, transforming these compounds into stable, safe atoms.

The most common antioxidants include Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, beta-carotene, and lutein. They exist in a wide range of foods and can also be taken as supplements.

What Healthy Foods Are Rich in Antioxidants?

A wide variety of fresh, plant-based foods contain antioxidants. When the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) tested products to measure antioxidant content, beans, wild blueberries, cranberries, artichokes, pecans, potatoes, and leafy greens were at the top of the list. When you’re craving something sweet, try dark chocolate with a high cocoa content, as this treat is also high in antioxidants. 

If you’re looking for a natural grocery store that stocks healthy foods that will nourish your body, turn to Lori's Natural Foods Center. Serving the Greater Rochester and Finger Lake area, this quality grocer has been offering organic, non-GMO products since 1981. They stay up to date on trends and carry unique items. Call (585) 424-2323 to connect with a friendly team member or visit their website for more information on their weekly specials and healthy foods.