On average, PLANT foods contain 64x more antioxidants than animal foods. Antioxidants in plant foods preserve our cell membranes and DNA against oxidative stress and disease, thus reducing disease risk (like Alzheimer’s and cancer) and slow down aging.

Let’s dive into the top 10 foods that are bursting with antioxidants.

1. Wild Blueberries: Brain-Boosting Powerhouses

Wild blueberries are a rich source of anthocyanins, a potent antioxidant that fights aging and boosts memory. In fact, they contain 33% more anthocyanins than regular blueberries. Recent studies have shown that a diet rich in antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s, especially when consumed midlife in at-risk individuals.

2. Dark Chocolate: Indulge in the Good Stuff

Dark chocolate with a cocoa content of 70% or more is a concentrated source of antioxidants. Flavonols and polyphenols in dark chocolate improve blood vessel health, reducing blood pressure and the risk of stroke and heart disease.

3. Prunes: More Than Just a Digestive Aid

Prunes are a powerhouse of antioxidants, containing more than twice the level of antioxidants as blueberries. And because they are dried and their nutrients are concentrated, the antioxidant score of prunes is seven times higher than that of fresh plums.

4. Purple Foods: A Key to Longevity

Purple sweet potatoes are a staple in Okinawa, Japan, a blue zone region known for its high life expectancy rates. The antioxidants in these purple powerhouses are quickly absorbed and can penetrate the blood–brain barrier and enhance memory.

Other purple/black/blue foods to include are forbidden rice (aka black or purple rice), blackberries, and blueberries.

5. Green Tea: A Cancer-Fighting Brew

Green tea contains catechins, antioxidants that can reduce the risk of cancer, specifically breast cancer. Catechins also support metabolism and boost fat breakdown.

6. Rooibos Tea: If you love the benefits of green tea, you’ll love rooibos, which rivals green tea in antioxidant potency, offering powerful protection against cell damage and inflammation.

7. Spinach: Eye and Brain Health

Spinach is rich in zeaxanthin and lutein, antioxidants that promote eye and brain health. Add spinach to your diet to keep your eyes and brain sharp.

8. Rosemary: A Memory-Boosting Herb

Rosemary’s rosmarinic acid may improve memory and protect against cancer. Add rosemary to your marinades to reduce cancer-causing compounds when grilling.

See this blog post for how to grill safely.

9. Parsley: A Liver-Protecting Herb

Parsley is rich in flavones, specifically apigenin, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Apigenin may also help protect the liver from damage.

10. Broccoli microgreens: Supercharged Broccoli

Broccoli sprouts have up to 100x more sulforaphane than regular broccoli. This potent compound fights cancer and promotes hormone balance by supporting estrogen detox.

Editor’s Note: The information in this article is intended for your educational use only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health practitioners with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health program.