Each time we eat, our bodies create free radicals as part of the process of breaking down our food. This means that in order to counteract the oxidation caused by the metabolism of food, we need to eat antioxidant-rich foods with every meal. In order for this to happen, every meal we eat should contain whole plant food. Nature created antioxidant compounds when it created plants.
Fruits, especially berries are a great source of antioxidants. When we eat berries with a meal that is high in fat or refined carbohydrates these antioxidants may help counterbalance the negative effects of the pro-inflammatory food. Consuming foods which are high in phytonutrients increases the antioxidant capacity of the blood. The foods with the most phytonutrients are fruits. And the fruits with the highest concentration of phytonutrients are berries.
In my opinion, it would be best to not eat the high fat or highly refined carbohydrate meal altogether. However, if you should succumb to the temptation, then I recommend chasing the bad food with some berries.
Berries are not the only good source of antioxidants. Legumes, especially red beans are very high in antioxidants. Apples are also good choice but even better than apples are artichokes, cinnamon and purple cabbage.
If we are talking about one single meal, the oxidative stress to the body may seem trivial. But over time, these daily insults can lead to problems such as heart disease and more. Don’t let oxidation rust you out.
Dr. Tina Paul, BCND, Traditional Naturopath, Vibrant Living Wellness Center, 144 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre, (626) 470-7711 or visit www.vibrantlivingwc.com.
