by FourFatMom

Created on: February 16, 2009   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

Pollution. Pesticides. Radiation. The bombardment begins as soon as we are born. Our bodies are under attack from our environments. Often the result of these attacks is the creation of free radicals in our cells. On another front, many of the foods we eat and chemicals we come in contact with have an inflammatory effect on the cells of our bodies. This inflammation is a major suspect in the causes of aging. The good news is that we can fight the effects of these attacks by eating a diet high in unprocessed foods from a variety of food groups and including a rainbow of different fruits and vegetables along with whole grains and lean protein. Some nutrients from foods in particular are masterful fighters against the forces of aging. Antioxidants stop free radicals from damaging our cells and Omega-3 fatty acids combat the tendency toward inflammation.

Free radicals are created when certain types of molecules interact with oxygen resulting in unpaired electrons in the atoms of the body that can then damage cell membranes or DNA. Free radicals are also created due by internal bodily stresses, even good ones like exercise and breathing. The damage caused by free radicals is suspected to contribute greatly to disease and may even be the main cause of the deterioration that aging brings. The news is not all bleak though. Luckily, we have a fantastic built-in defense system that uses antioxidants to stop the damaging chain reactions caused by free radicals.

Antioxidants are not created in our body so must be provided by our diets. The required antioxidant micronutrients are Vitamins E and C, beta-carotene, and other compounds like, lutein, zeaxanthin, and lycopene. The mineral Selenium is necessary for proper use antioxidants by the body.

To do battle against the forces of aging you should arm yourself with a wide variety of foods high in antioxidants. In general, richly colored fruits and vegetables contain the most antioxidants. Research is ongoing, according to the USDA, but the best sources of sources of antioxidants known are listed below:

1. Berries including cranberries, blueberries, blackberries, strawberries contain very high doses of antioxidants

2. Legumes: pinto, red, black, and kidney beans are loaded with antioxidants

3. Green tea is high in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties

4. Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse with vitamins C, E, beta-carotene, lycopene and other antioxidant compounds

5. Nuts: especially pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts,

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