Here are some foods that are rich in antioxidants which can help prevent cancer and keep you healthy. Fruits and vegetables are high on the list, but so are nuts and grains, even meats poultry and fish.
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid can be found in many fruits and vegetables, as well as cereals, beef, fish and chicken.
Get your vitamin A from foods like liver, sweet potatoes, mozzarella cheese, milk, eggs (especially the egg yolks)and of course, carrots.
Vitamin E is rich in antioxidants, and is also known as alpha-tocopheral. You can find it in many oils like wheat germ, soybeans, safflower and corn oil. You can also find it in mangos, nuts, and brocolli.
Selenium is something you want to look for, and is a mineral more than an antioxidant nutrient. It does have a component of antioxidant enzymes. Rice and Wheat are major sources rich in selenium around the world. Depending on how much selenium is in the soil, will determine the amount in the food. Many animals eat grains and plants that are rich in selenium, so their bodies absorb this, and it can be found in the muscle. Brazil Nuts, also contain a high amount of Selenium. I have noticed a trend in multivitamins and other products adding selenium for the health benefits.
Lycopene is a great source as well. You will find this potent antioxidant in foods like tomatoes, pink grapefruit, blood oranges, apricots, papaya, guava, and watermelon. Some estimates showed that about 85% of the intake of lycopene comes from tomatoes and tomato products. (American dietary intake)
Kale, Spinach, and the leafy vegetables like collard greens are rich in Lutein, which is also associated with healthy eyes.
Beta Carotene cannot be left out of this list, and is found in foods that are more orange in color. Sweet potatoes, carrots, cantaloupe, squash, apricots, pumpkin and mangoes are rich in beta carotene. You can also find it in the green leafy vegetables like spinach, and kale.
In short, make sure you get your vegetables and fruits, and when you can, get a variety of colors. They are so good for you. Your body will thank you.
