- Noah, 3rd year, Criminology
There many ways to help increase your antioxidant intake. Vitamin C, vitamin E, flavonoids, selenium and carotenoids are all sources of antioxidants. You could incorporate vitamin C in your diet by adding broccoli or spinach to your food. Vitamin E can be incorporated by consuming almonds, peanut butter or avocados. Consuming fish twice a week is also a great source of vitamin E. Flavonoids can be found in green tea instead of coffee. Selenium can be consumed through beans. Finally, carotenoids can be consumed in roasted or baked carrots, sweet potato or squash. These foods are all great sources of natural antioxidants. I try to incorporate them in my daily diet to get the right amount of antioxidants.
- Sarah, 2nd year, Health Sciences
Found in natural substances in foods, antioxidants contribute to lowering your risk of chronic disease. Although I was aware that antioxidants were found in vegetables and fruits, I was surprised to learn that you can also find them in whole grain products such as bread and pasta. I was also shocked to learn that antioxidant supplements exist, since I had mostly heard of only vitamin and mineral supplements. But using supplements isn’t recommended. You can get all of the antioxidants you need by eating a variety of antioxidant-rich foods.
- Angélique, 2nd year, Biochemistry
Phytonutrients are also antioxidants. If we break it down, “phyto” is Greek for plant, so phytonutrients are nutrients from plants! I’d assumed that fruits and veggies contain phytonutrients but it turns out grains and legumes also do. These nutrients work hand in hand with other important parts of our diet to keep us healthy. When it comes to their antioxidant properties, they help prevent cell damage and thus promote healthy aging! On top of that, phytonutrients are proven to reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s and even Parkinson’s.
- Amani, 2nd year, Health Sciences
Phytonutrients are more common in our food than we think. Did you know there are phytonutrients in our coffee, tea and even dark chocolate? That was a complete surprise to me! Phytonutrients are known to be found in red, orange and yellow vegetables like tomatoes, carrots and peppers, and leafy greens. They’re also found in whole grain products, nuts and seeds, and legumes. An amazing, simple snack that I love and is rich in phytonutrients is an orange, berry and banana smoothie!
- Shiraz, 4th year, Health Sciences