Why you need antioxidants

Antioxidants 101

Come winter, antioxidants are all the rage. And for good reason. As such a versatile and powerful chemical (yes, chemical!), antioxidants reign supreme. Like anti-inflammatory foods, they have a remarkable ability to take our health to the next level. Best part is, you don’t have to overcomplicate it. Antioxidants are present in a wide variety of accessible foods: colorful produce, nuts, whole grains, and even animal protein. If you needed an excuse to eat more berries, this is it.

What are antioxidants?

Antioxidants are natural (or man-made) compounds. Of all the antioxidants, you’re probably familiar with these three: vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene. You’ll find these in colorful fruits and vegetables, especially those with purple, blue, red, orange, and yellow hues. In simple terms, antioxidants help prevent—or limit—damage caused by oxidative stress (unstable molecules). Ultimately, the fewer free radicals we have, the better.

What are the benefits of eating antioxidants?

The benefits speak for themselves. They’re essential to our well-being. Given their ability to neutralize free radicals, they can potentially ward off certain diseases. Research is underway, but antioxidants might be able to mitigate the risk of developing cancer. Regardless, we do know that consuming foods high in vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene can support the growth of healthy cells. And healthy cells = a healthier you.

10 foods high in antioxidants

• Bell peppers
• Brazil nuts
• Berries
• Dark chocolate
• Goji berries
• Artichokes
• Red grapes
• Currants
• Beef liver
• Garlic

Dark chocolate

Calling all chocolate lovers! A chocolate bar with over 70% cacao is rich in antioxidants. Dark chocolate also contains iron, potassium, and magnesium. Win, win, win.

When it comes to shopping for healthy dark chocolate, aim to buy organic (unfortunately, conventionally grown cocoa is one of the highest pesticide-using crops), fair-trade, and cocoa beans should be the first listed ingredient. Furthermore, aim to avoid chocolate bars with vegetable oils, artificial sweeteners, and milk substitutes. Our go-to chocolate: Hu Chocolate, Alter Eco, and Raaka. Have you made our snacking chocolate yet? It’s so easy and equally delish.

Low-sugar antioxidant smoothie

In last week’s newsletter, we shared how to make a filling, balanced smoothie (like this coconut raspberry lime elixir). Unfortunately, too many smoothies are a blood sugar nightmare. Packed with fruit, fruit juice, and minimal protein, an unbalanced smoothie is a quick way to send your blood sugar on a rollercoaster. However, rich in healthy fats, fiber, and protein, smoothies can be a nutritious and satiating meal (or snack).

Need smoothie inspo? This is our favorite way to get a boost of antioxidants:

INGREDIENTS:

• ½ cup frozen cherries
• ½ cup frozen mixed berries (strawberries, blackberries, etc.)
• 1 cup greens like spinach or arugula
• 1 scoop (20g) chocolate protein powder
• 1 tablespoon almond butter
• ½-inch peeled ginger
• Dash of cinnamon
• 1 scoop of beeya seeds
• Water (or non-dairy milk) to blend, roughly 1 cup

INSTRUCTIONS:

Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend for 30 seconds-1 minute, or until it reaches a smooth consistency.

We love hearing about your experiences with beeya!

Yay to no more hot flashes! We are so honored to support women at all life stages feel better and have happier hormones :) Learn more about beeya here.