Tissue tenderness or inflammation results whenever your immune system recognizes a foreign particle, an injury, or tissue damage. When the inflammation persists, chances of contracting chronic diseases such as arthritis, cancer, and diabetes increase. Luckily, you can head off inflammation with the following antioxidant-rich foods before it turns into a disease.
1. Dark Chocolate
Most people dislike dark chocolate because of its bitter taste. However, it’s rich in flavanols, such as epicatechins, which give it antioxidant properties to combat oxidative stress in body cells. The recommended cocoa content in dark chocolate should be 70% and above to get antioxidant benefits.
2. Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain ascorbic acid (vitamin C), which prevents the cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. In addition, they contain lycopene, the pigment that gives them the red color. Research, shows this pigment has a high potential of preventing prostate cancer. Also, it contains flavonoids such as kaempferol and quercetin, which boost its antioxidant properties.
3. Green Tea
Green tea’s antioxidant properties come from polyphenols called catechins in teas. It contains six catechins, making its antioxidant properties stronger than those of vitamin C. In addition to catechins, green tea contains alkaloids, which have a calming effect on the nervous system.
4. Oranges
Apart from having minerals such as phosphorous and potassium that prevent chronic illnesses, oranges also have antioxidants that boost the immune system. They’re rich in vitamin C, which reduces oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Also, oranges have a high water content, and this boosts antioxidant activities. One medium-sized orange provides 4 ounces or 121 g of water.
Curb Inflammation with Your Diet
If you’re looking for a diet that can prevent or reduce inflammation, consider adding the above foods to your daily meal plans.
