Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Antioxidant Foods




Consider ORAC scores of various foods. ORAC refers to the Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity, an analysis that is used to measure the total antioxidant power of foods and other chemical substances. The higher the ORAC score, the greater its antioxidant capacity. This is a laboratory measurement and its relevance to the diet is unclear. Demonstrating that a substance neutralizes free radicals in a test tube
and showing that it prevents some disease are quite different matters.

ORAC scores for 3.5 oz (100 ml):

Mangosteen--------------------20,000
Acai--------------------------18,400
Pomegranate-------------------10,500
Prunes------------------------ 5,770
Raisins----------------------- 2,830
Blueberries------------------ 2,400
Strawberries---------------- 1,540
Raspberries----------------- 1,220
Plums----------------------------949
Oranges------------------------ -750
Grapes---------------------------739
Cherries-------------------------670
Kiwi-----------------------------602
Kale---------------------------1,770
Spinach------------------------1,260
Brussels Sprouts------------ ---980
Broccoli florets-----------------890
Beets----------------------------840
Red Bell Peppers------------- --710
Onions---------------------------450
Corn-----------------------------400
Eggplant-------------------------390
Carrots--------------------------210

Learn about the different types of antioxidants in foods. For example, acai berries and blueberries provide powerful antioxidants known as anthocyanins. Grapes contain antioxidants that boost nitric oxide and may lower blood pressure. Broccoli provides thiocyanates, which may reduce cancer risk. Remember that some vitamins and minerals themselves are antioxidants.

Vitamins C and E and selenium are all powerful antioxidants. Drink 100% fruit juice. Fruit juices can contribute greatly to your antioxidant intake, but do not be deceived by products that add water (such as low-calorie orange or grape juice) or sugar (often added to cranberry juice). Check the ingredient list and look for juices that actually say "100% juice" on the front.


TipsRead more about the top ten fruits and vegetables. The list above is just for quick reference and shows only the ORAC scores of the foods. For instance, the acai berry was rated the number one superfood by Nicholas Perricone. He said that acai is not only rich in antioxidants (see the top ten list above), but also provides monounsaturated fats, phytosterols, trace minerals, fiber, and a nearly complete package of essential amino acids.[1] Prefer foods that are high in both antioxidants and other nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, or essential fatty acids. For example, oranges are in the top ten list and also provide vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, and B vitamins. Grapes, also appearing on the list, are one of the few
sources of resveratrol, which may slow aging. Keep in mind that other food groups such as whole grains or nuts and legumes can also be rich in antioxidants. Peanuts and soybeans are two rich sources of antioxidants.
source :

http://www.wikihow.com/Reduce-Your-Age-With-Top-10-Antioxidant-Fruits-and-Vegetables

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