A lot of articles and media stress the importance of antioxidants. Can you tell me more about why I need them and the best ways to get them?
Antioxidants combat oxidative stress from our environment and body processes, which can damage cells and is linked to inflammation. Some of the most common antioxidants are vitamin E, vitamin C and beta-carotene (precursor to vitamin A).
You can get adequate amounts through a plant-centric diet and inclusion of healthy fats (like nuts, seeds and peanut butter), citrus, peppers, green vegetables, and orange- or red-colored produce.
A registered dietitian with Kroger, Molly Hembree provides private nutrition-counseling services, and has been a public speaker, radio talk-show guest, blog author and TV news presenter for Kroger. She enjoys helping customers simplify the confusing world of nutrition labels, dietary intolerances, weight management and plant-based nutrition.