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Beta carotene and lycopene is best absorbed by our bodies in cooked foods served with a little oil. Cooked carrots pureed with olive oil for example or tomatoes roasted with olive oil are an excellent way of getting the most of the antioxidants in these foods. |
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Just one mug (300ml) of green or one cup of white tea (200ml) a day can significantly increase the antioxidant activity in blood. Four to five cups are thought to give optimal antioxidant benefits. Brewing for 10 minutes maximises the antioxidant levels. |
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Antioxidants in red grape skins are also present in red wine. Pinot noir grapes have especially high levels, particularly Burgundy, Bordeaux and those grown in Chilean valleys. Cocoa and therefore dark 70% cocoa chocolate give us antioxidants with 'aspirin-like' effects. Try Green & Blacks 20g bars to get the benefits minus the excessive calories in big bars. |
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Herbs like sage, rosemary and thyme contain especially powerful antioxidants capable of grabbing two free radicals at a time, giving them double the antioxidant power. |
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Smokers should avoid beta carotene supplements because research shows they may increase the risk rather than protect against lung cancer. Selenium supplements may however be useful for smokers to boost intakes of this cancer beating antioxidant. |
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