How many of us have heard a food described as having antioxidant properties? We immediately associate it with something good for the body, but what is the function of antioxidant foods? What are they for?

It is important to mention that although our body produces free radicals naturally, the complication begins when they accumulate or come from external sources, such as pollution, sunlight, tobacco smoke and processed foods rich in fats or sugars.

Once the concentration of free radicals increases in the body, the oxidative stress process begins, which is associated with premature aging processes and the development of chronic degenerative diseases. How do we help to control this? Through a balanced diet and the consumption of foods or supplements rich in antioxidants, since these are molecules that have the ability to fight free radicals.

Foods rich in antioxidants
Blueberry
Blackberry
Strawberry
Green Tea
Vitamin E
Vitamin C
Vitamin A
Pomegranate
Green coffee
Beetroot
Broccoli
Dark chocolate composed mostly of cocoa.

Author: Nerissa Álvarez
Review: Betzabe Guido

References
Battle, M. V. (2007). Antioxidants present in food: vitamins, minerals and supplements. Offarm: pharmacy and society, 26 (10), 79-86.
Coronado, M., Vega and León, S., Gutiérrez, R., Vázquez, M., & Radilla, C. (2015). Antioxidants: current outlook for human health. Chilean Nutrition Magazine, 42 (2), 206-212.
Ramírez, J., García, C., Vizcaíno, J., Cárdenas, J., Gutiérrez, F., Mariel, H., & Villagrán, S. (2012). What are antioxidants and what are they for. Science and Man, xxv, 2.
Pfizer Medical Team. (2020). Antioxidants: what are they, where do we find them and what are they for? Gethealthystayhealthy.com