Nutrition Notes: Gotta Love Those Antioxidants!

We've all heard the hype associated with antioxidants, but have you ever wondered what an antioxidant really is, and just why it is so significant? Antioxidants work to protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are typically formed when your body breaks down foods, as well as with increased exposure to tobacco smoke.Studies have found that consuming a diet rich in antioxidants from natural food sources can prevent heart disease and certain types of cancer. So just how can you ensure that you are consuming enough of this powerful and extremely vital substance? Consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables will provide you with adequate amounts of Vitamins A, C, E and Selenium, which are all natural antioxidants.For more information on how to add antioxidant-rich foods to your daily diet check out the recommendations below!• Consume a wide variety of both fruits & vegetables.• Add legumes (beans, nuts, peas, lentils) to salads, pastas, and other dishes.• Replace snacks such as chips and cookies for nuts.• Incorporate various herbs & spices in meals (basil, cilantro, oregano, etc).• Fill your plate with color, to ensure variety of plant based foods.• Avoid tobacco products.Click here to learn more about antioxidants.