Foods for a More Beautiful You

It's no secret that antioxidants are incredibly beautifying and super healthy--not only do they prevent oxidation of molecules including collagen (slowing down the aging process), but they also protect against heart disease, cancer, and reduce blood pressure. We love antioxidants so much we had to make a list of foods that have the highest amounts of these miracle molecules:

BERRIES

Deliciously provocative, berries are full of fiber, minerals, and vitamins that delay the onset of age-related loss of cognitive function. Who knew--berries keep you sharp!

Healthy Tips: Add berries into vanilla yogurt with honey and granola for a healthy snack.

TOMATOES

Tomatoes are rich in lycopene that help prevent lung, colon and breast cancers. Bring on the salads!

Healthy Tip: Add Roma tomatoes, fresh basil, and olive oil with pasta.

BROCCOLI

Broccoli is known for it's compound indole-3-carbinol, an antioxidant that breaks down estrogen and reduces the risk of breast cancer. The beta-carotene found in broccoli also helps protect against cancer and heart disease. Broccoli and cheese anyone?

Healthy Tip: Steam broccoli and season with olive oil. Add chopped black olives and dash with red pepper flakes.

RED GRAPES

Resveratrol and quercetin are anitoxidants in red grapes that help veins stay open and flexible. Resveratrol also protects against gastric ulcers, cancer, stroke and even osteoporosis.

Healthy Tip: Freeze grapes for a summer treat that is as sweet as it is healthy.

TEA

Studies prove, that tea significantly reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer. Although green tea has been said to have more antioxidants as black tea, recent observations suggest that both are equally beneficial. You may want to make your next coffee date, a tea date!

Healthy Tips: Try using green tea to boil soba noodles in. Season to taste, voila!

Information courtesy of crumcreek

-H.Kattan