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A Look at Fruit Antioxidants

Antioxidants are naturally occurring substances found in most plants and have the potential to help combat heart diseases and fight cancer. Many fruits and vegetables contain these compounds called ‘phytonutrients’, which have the beneficial effect of keeping us healthy by improving our immune system.

So far scientists have cataloged over nine hundred phytonutrients, huge advances in preventative health care and nutrition are advancing at an almost daily rate. There has been a whole host of discoveries made into the properties of these phytonutrients, the anti-aging power of blueberries, the joint pain relieving properties of cherries and a whole host of powerful properties in pomegranates are just a few examples.

Containing less sugar than most fruits, the blueberry can also boast a number of other antioxidant properties too. Currently the most efficient and pleasurable way to get the benefits of these fruits is by drinking their juice, regular consumption can help our circulation and increase our ability to combat illness. The other properties of antioxidants include the ability to fight disease as well. You will also find high levels of these substances in apples which can help to reduce the chance of heart disease.

Phytochemicals which can be an aid to our health are even contained in citrus fruits. The combination of phytonutrients in cherries is proving to have properties that can help sufferers of joint pain and fibromyalgia. Other substances, vitamins and minerals for instance, are also being studied more carefully even though their benefits are well documented. Another group of antioxidants called Phytoalexins found in many berries can prevent infection and have anti-viral properties.

These compounds can help or suppress harmful body aging processes that often end in heart attacks, stroke, faulty blood pressure, and Alzheimer’s disease. Others found in tomatoes make this one super-food in the prevention of heart disease.

Although quite large quantities are needed so using tomato juice, puree or sauce which are all concentrates has been found to be the best way to increase the level of the antioxidants in our food. The sweet, juicy watermelon is actually packed with some of the most important in phytonutrients in nature. With all the natural goodness fruit contains and now the health benefits as well, isn’t it time for you to start having more fruit in your diet.