Tuesday, November 4, 2014

What are Carotenoids?

Antioxidants are molecules that help prevent cellular damage, diseases, aging, and cancer. They come in the form of vitamin C, saponins, lycopene, and selenium. Many vegetables and fruits contain important antioxidants, including carrots, kale, and spinach.

The list of vegetables that contain important antioxidants includes tomatoes, spinach, and olives. Loaded with flavonoids the tomatoes protect the body against pancreatic, lung, endometrial, breast, and colon cancer. They are an excellent source of vitamin E, copper, vitamin K, and dietary fiber.

They are low in cholesterol and saturated fat and are packed with dietary fiber. Tomatoes contain other important antioxidants such as zea-xanthin and lycopene, which filter ultra-violet rays and protect the body from free radicals. Moreover, tomatoes are a good source of lycopene, which protects the organs and cells from free radicals. Minerals and antioxidants in carrots help prevent heart disease.

Carotenoids also improve the function of the white blood cells which help the body to fight cancer, viruses, bacteria, and yeast. Loaded with vitamin K and manganese, carrots are also a good source of thiamin. They are low in cholesterol and high in dietary fiber. Romaine lettuce also contains essential nutrients and antioxidants such as saponins, zeaxanthin, and vitamin C. Saponins are antioxidants that boost the immune system, lower bad cholesterol, and reduce the risk for parasite infections. Romaine lettuce is a good source of vitamin C, which relieves chronic pain and inflammation and facilitates tissue growth. It is a good source of potassium and thiamin. It is low in cholesterol and sodium and has some dietary fiber Romaine lettuce also contains omega-3 fatty acids and decreases the risk for blood vessel damage, heart attack, and stroke. You can prepare a salad with bean sprouts, hard boiled eggs, bacon, chestnuts, and Romaine lettuce. Another idea is to make a salad from red or white onions, Romaine lettuce, olive oil, vinegar, and sugar. Nutrients in lettuce helps prevent Alzheimer’s disease and high blood pressure.

Many fruits and vegetables supply essential nutrients, including Russet potatoes, blueberries, artichoke, and Gala apples. Being an excellent source of potassium, vitamin A, and dietary fiber, sweet potatoes are low in saturated fat. Sweet potatoes are fat-free and help the body to fight inflammations, heart disease, cancer, and asthma. They are loaded with vitamin C and potassium and help prevent arthritis. You can grill sweet potatoes or make casseroles. Sweet potatoes go well with broccoli, tofu, vinaigrette, and raisins. You can also make a puree from maple syrup, bananas, and sweet potatoes and add chopped walnuts and cinnamon. Loaded with antioxidants and vitamin K, kale helps patients with Alzheimer’s disease and prevents blood clotting. It contains magnesium which controls blood sugar levels and aids the function of the heart muscle. Kale is packed with flavonoids, carotenoids, and other antioxidants, which protect the body against cancer and fight free radicals.


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