Antioxidants are phytochemicals present in fruits, vegetables and spices like terpenes, anthocyanins, polyphenols and lycopene(pigments). Antioxidants are substances or nutrients found in our foods which can prevent or slow the oxidative damage to our body. When our body cells use oxygen they naturally produce free radicals (by products). Polluted air contains Carbon dioxide and Carbon Monoxide. When we inhale this  air our system produces more free radicals. These free radicals enter the body through the body’s respiratory systems. Free radicals in the blood stream are linked to cause heart diseases, high BP, cancer and Urinary tract infections. Here are some of the antioxidants and sources which can be supplied through diet.

Antioxidant property                                                                                     Source

Vitamin C                                                                             Guava, Amla, Green peppers, broccoli and tomatoes

Anthocyanins                                                                    Pomegranate and red grapes

Polyphenols                                                                       Apples, strawberries, raspberries and black berries

Phenolics                                                                             Brinjal, spinach and onions

Terpenes                                                                             Citrus fruits, carrots, cabbage and cucumber

Lycopene                                                                            Tomatoes, red peppers and pink grapes

Carotenoids                                                                       Saffron and annatto

Curcumin                                                                             Turmeric, eugenol and clove

Beta carotene                                                                   Green leafy vegetables

Vitamin E                                                                             Nuts and seeds, whole grains, green leafy vegetables, vegetable oil and olive oil

Selenium                                                         Fish and shell fish, red meat, grains, eggs, chicken and garlic

These natural antioxidants are easily absorbable in immune systems. Studies have show

that by eating a diet rich in antioxidants have beneficial effects and reduce cardiovascular

diseases, cancer and cataract formation. Hence free radicals should be combated by

antioxidants to neutralize their effect.