5 Myths About Antioxidants
- Free Radicals Must Be Destroyed
- All Antioxidants Are Created Equal
- All Antioxidants Come from Fruits and Vegetables
- Antioxidant-Fortified Foods Are Healthier
- If I Exercise and Take Supplements, I'll Be Superfit
More Food Lists
All Antioxidants Come from Fruits and Vegetables
The entire plant kingdom—including beans, nuts, seeds, and grains—is awash in antioxidants, according to a recent study from the University of Scranton. That's because all plants produce antioxidants to fight against predators and UV rays, says Vinson. It's important to steer clear of refined grains, though; they've been stripped of most of their antioxidant benefits.
Even meat, dairy products, and eggs contain some antioxidants, which mainly come from the nutrient-rich plants the animals fed on.
Do this: Eat whole-grain foods, beans, nuts, and seeds regularly. When animals are on the menu, make sure they've been grass-fed; meat and dairy products from these better-fed beasts have been shown to contain higher levels of antioxidants. Eggs from pastured hens also rank higher in antioxidants—look for them at farmers' markets.