Antioxidants are compounds that are both produced in our bodies and found in the foods we eat. They protect us from damage caused by potentially harmful molecules and free radicals. Let's take a closer look at antioxidants, which protect our cells and keep free radicals away from our bodies. What is the most powerful antioxidant and which foods contain it? What should we eat to live a life rich in antioxidants? To increase antioxidant levels in your blood and live healthier, you should include the following foods in your diet.
1. Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate lovers are in luck because dark chocolate contains more cocoa, minerals, and antioxidants than milk chocolate. 100 grams of dark chocolate contains up to 15 mmols of antioxidants. This is even more than what's found in antioxidant-rich blueberries and raspberries!
The antioxidants in dark chocolate energize the skin and make it look more vibrant. Dark chocolate is also good for heart health and can help regulate blood pressure. You can regularly consume dark chocolate, which reduces bad cholesterol and helps control the risk of heart disease.
Editor's recommendation: L'Oréal Paris Anti-Fatigue Coffee Bean Sugar Scrub is perfect for reducing the appearance of tired skin! This scrub, which makes facial features look more rested and adds radiance to the skin, can be used 2-3 times a week as needed.
2. Pecans
Pecan nuts are a type of nut native to Mexico and South America. Rich in healthy, natural nut oil and minerals, pecan nuts also contain high amounts of antioxidants.
100 grams of pecans contain up to 10.6 mmol of antioxidants. Regularly consuming pecans helps increase antioxidant levels in the blood, benefiting heart disease and cholesterol. Pecans are also very good for the skin! This type of nut, which gives the skin energy and a brighter appearance, helps reduce facial imperfections. As you know, while foods like hazelnuts and walnuts are healthy, they can be high in calories. Therefore, you shouldn't limit your daily pecan intake to more than a few.
3. Blueberries
Those who want to consume healthy foods love blueberries. Because blueberries are a valuable food that is both low in calories and high in antioxidants! 100 grams of blueberries contain up to 9.2 mmol of antioxidants. Studies have shown that blueberries have the highest antioxidant content among fruits and vegetables consumed daily.
One of the main benefits of blueberries for the skin is regulating the skin's oil balance. They reduce skin imperfections like acne and blackheads, and balance sebum levels. Studies show that the antioxidants in blueberries can delay the age-related decline in brain function. Protecting the body against free radicals, improving blood pressure, and protecting against heart disease, you should consume blueberries daily.
Editor's recommendation: If you're looking for a mask containing blueberry, we recommend Lancome Énergie De Vie Night Mask . Containing three plant extracts – lemon balm, ginseng, and blueberry – this mask moisturizes the skin and reduces dullness. After using this night mask, you can wake up to more rested skin in the morning.
4. Strawberries
Strawberries, one of the most beloved fruits, are known as a storehouse of vitamin C and antioxidants. 100 grams of strawberries contain an average of 5.4 mmol of antioxidants. They also contain a special type of antioxidant called anthocyanins, which give them their red color. Strawberries with higher anthocyanin content are a brighter red! So, the brighter red strawberries you eat, the healthier they are.
The Omega-3 in strawberries is very beneficial for skin blemishes. Strawberries even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of blemishes, making the skin look smoother. Eating strawberries helps lower bad cholesterol and raise good cholesterol, thus reducing the risk of heart disease.
5. Artichoke
Everyone knows how healthy artichokes are. They are very beneficial for conditions like jaundice and liver problems, and you should definitely consume them a few times a month. A rich source of antioxidants, artichokes are also known for being high in fiber and a storehouse of minerals.
100 grams of artichoke can contain up to 4.7 mmol of antioxidants. Artichoke is particularly rich in antioxidants known as chlorogenic acid. This type of antioxidant helps reduce the risk of certain cancers, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. To benefit your skin, you can drink artichoke juice. Drinking artichoke juice helps reduce acne and skin imperfections. You can drink one glass of artichoke juice a day to prevent blackhead formation.
Editor's tip: How you consume artichokes is also very important. Boiling artichokes increases their antioxidant content eightfold, while steaming increases it fifteenfold. Conversely, frying artichokes can reduce their antioxidant content.
6. Goji Berry (Wolfberry)
Known as one of the most popular fruits in recent years, Goji Berry has been an important part of Chinese medicine for many years. Goji Berry is often highlighted as a superfood because it is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. 100 grams of Goji Berry contains 4.3 mmol of antioxidants.
Goji berries contain special antioxidants known as Lycium barbarum polysaccharides, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. These valuable antioxidants are also very effective against skin aging! Those who want to look younger and smoother are showing interest in goji berry drinks. You too can try goji berry smoothie recipes to make your skin look younger.
Editor's recommendation: La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C Illuminating Antioxidant Serum helps reduce fine wrinkles and prevents blemishes thanks to its vitamin C formula.
7. Raspberry
Raspberries, with their tart and unique taste, are a perfect addition to desserts. They are a source of fiber, vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants. 100 grams of raspberries can contain up to 4 mmol of antioxidants.
Studies have shown that eating raspberries brightens and evens out skin tone. It prevents uneven skin tone and tightens the skin. Raspberries have also been shown to be beneficial for cancer and heart disease. With positive results in stomach, colon, and breast cancer, raspberries are a favorite fruit for those leading a healthy lifestyle!
8. Castle
Kale is a very healthy leafy green vegetable from the cruciferous family. It is considered one of the most nutritious greens, and is rich in vitamins A, K, and C, with 2.7 mmol of antioxidants per 100 grams.
Kale's primary benefits for the skin include tightening pores and making the skin appear firmer. By reducing pores, kale also helps decrease acne. Other benefits of kale include protecting bone health and being a valuable source of calcium.