Add antioxidants to your grocery list! Antioxidants are an important part of nutrition
that helps minimize the impact of free radicals in your body. Free radicals are found in your body, as a
byproduct of cell metabolism and in the environment through sunlight,
pollution, and cigarette smoke. Free
radicals cause oxidation within your body that can cause cell and tissue
damage. This damage could play a role in
colon cancer, as well as other cancers, cardiovascular disease, diabetes,
Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and some eye diseases.
Interestingly, the same process that causes oxidation in your body is
the exact same process that causes metal to rust.
What should you put on your list?
Berries –Berries might have cardiovascular benefits such as
lowering blood pressure and positively impacting blood vessel health, according
to research. The best berries include
blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries.
Other types of fruit – Other fruit also has antioxidant
properties. The best fruits in this
category are prunes, red delicious apples, granny smith apples, sweet cherries,
plums, and gala apples.
Curcumin – Curcumin is found in turmeric, a spice that is
used to prepare curry. Preliminary
research indicates curcumin may prevent cancer and possibly slow the spread of cancer. It also believed it can help reduce swelling
and inflammation.
Cruciferous vegetables – Research indicates that these types
of vegetables can have a protective effect on prostate, colorectal (colon) and
lung cancers. Cruciferous vegetables
include broccoli, cauliflower, Swiss chard, Brussels sprouts, kale, and turnips.
Other food sources of antioxidants – dried red kidney beans,
cooked artichokes, pecans, cooked russet potatoes, certain teas, and dried
black beans.
According to experts, the best way to get antioxidants is
through food sources. While there are
antioxidant supplements available, there can be serious health risks associated with
these. Talk to your doctor prior to
taking any supplements or for more information.
Find more helpful tips on Prevention at the Susan Cohan Colon Cancer Foundation website. And, while you are there, make sure you visit the Expert Opinions section for articles and information by Dr. Joel Fuhrman, M.D., a board-certified family physician, nutrition researcher, best-selling author, and one of the country's leading nutritional medicine experts.
Sources:
http://healthletter.mayoclinic.com/
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