What is a significant dietary source of antioxidants?

Fruits and vegetables are considered a significant dietary source of antioxidants due to their high levels of vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals that help combat oxidative stress in the body. Antioxidants are compounds that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, unstable molecules that can lead to various chronic diseases and aging.

Fruits such as berries, citrus fruits, and apples, as well as vegetables like spinach, kale, and carrots, are particularly rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, flavonoids, and carotenoids. Including a variety of these foods in your diet promotes overall health by supporting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and potentially lowering the risk of certain diseases.

While meats and poultry, grains and cereals, and dairy products have their own nutritional benefits, they generally do not provide the same level of antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables. Instead, they are more associated with other essential nutrients like proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Thus, fruits and vegetables stand out as the primary sources of antioxidants in a balanced diet.