Antioxidants are nutrients that are both made by our body and found in food. These nutrients are important, because they help protect our bodies from the oxidative stress caused by free radical molecules. Oxidative stress can ultimately damage our cells and sometimes our DNA, ultimately putting us at heightened risk for diseases like heart disease, cancer, and others. So what are the best sources of antioxidants on The Kaufmann Diet?
Getting antioxidants from food is important, and fortunately for those on The Kaufmann Diet, there many foods that comply with the diet which contain an abundance of antioxidants. Be sure to include these in your diet regularly.
Artichokes
Artichokes are a good source of fiber and minerals, but their anti-oxidant makes artichokes stand out as an excellent food to include in your Kaufmann Diet. They are particularly high in an antioxidant known chlorogenic acid, which is thought to protect against cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Try boiling or steaming artichokes to maximize the antioxidant availability.
Berries
These include blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, cranberries and other berries. Berries are loaded with nutrition and relatively low in sugar, making them excellent fruits for The Kaufmann Diet. Berries routinely make the lists of anti-oxidant rich foods, particularly blueberries. Other fruits might have antioxidants as well, but many of them are excluded on The Kaufmann Diet due to the inherent sugar. Berries, however, can be enjoyed regularly.
Leafy Greens
Greens are loaded with nutrition, so it is not surprising that they are also rich in antioxidants. The stand out greens in terms of antioxidant value are spinach and kale. Interestingly, gently cooking both of these foods can make the inherent nutrition more bioavailable.
Pecans
Pecans are a good source of fiber and healthy fats, and they are also loaded with antioxidants. Other nuts contain antioxidants, but pecans stand out as being particularly antioxidant-rich.
Spices and Herbs
Spices and herbs are well-known for their medicinal qualities, and likely that has something to do with their rich antioxidant content. You should be using these liberally in your food. Many of them contain powerful anti-fungal properties in addition to being loaded with antioxidants.
Vegetables
Vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, cabbage, asparagus, beets, and radishes are all high in antioxidants. Avoid foods like potatoes, and initially, sweet potatoes, on The Kaufmann Diet due to the high starch content.
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