多吃富含抗氧化剂的食物防衰老

爱思英语编者按：抗氧化食品也称为防衰老食品，科学研究表明，吃适量的红薯、玉米、芦笋、花椰菜、茄子、甜菜、荠菜、苤蓝菜、土豆、金针菇、雪里蕻、大白菜可抗衰老。

6 Tips to Stay Young With Antioxidants

Antioxidants are important elements that purify the body and help you stay young. By blocking the oxidation process generated by free radicals, they reduce their harmful effects. Since they are usually not produced in the body, one needs to intake them through supplementary products. Antioxidants include Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Lutein, Lycopene, Carotenoids and are abundant in fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, grains, red meat, poultry and fish. Here are 6 antioxidants to help you stay young.

1. Lutein

This is present in green leafy vegetables and egg yolks, Lutein is great for our eyes and skin as they are the only organs of the body directly exposed to the outside environment and needs to be protected.

2. Carotenoids

Carotenoids are colorful plant pigments, some of which are vitamin A, lycopene. They are present in apricots, broccoli, pumpkin, spinach and sweet potatoes and are the reason why fruits and vegetables have a deep rich color. Generally, the deeper the color of the fruit or vegetable, the higher concentration of carotenoids. Bright orange carrots, for example, is especially a good source of beta-carotene.

3. Vitamin A

Vitamin A helps form and maintain healthy skin, teeth, skeletal and soft tissue, and skin. It is abundant in carrots, egg yolk, butter, cheese and milk.

4. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is also known as ascorbic acid and has several important functions. It helps protect cells from free radical damage, lower your cancer risk, regenerate vitamin E supplies, and improve iron absorption. Vitamin C is present in citrus fruit and juices (oranges, lemons), papaya, strawberries, capsicum, cabbage, and spinach.

5. Lycopene

Lycopene is a potent antioxidant that can help protect against degenerative diseases by preventing DNA damage in the cells and help the cells function better. High levels of lycopene correlate with reduced risk of cancer and heart diseases. It is found in tomatoes, watermelon, guava, papaya, apricots, oranges, and other foods.

6. Vitamin E

Vitamin E also known as alpha-tocopherol, is an antioxidant that keeps the immune system strong against viruses and bacteria. Vitamin E is also important in the formation of red blood cells and helps keep blood from clotting by widening blood vessels. It is found in almonds, in many oils including safflower, corn and soybean oils, nuts, and other foods.