I’ve been trying to focus on healthy eating lately, and I’m starting to see changes both in my body and overall health. I feel better about myself because I’ve taken control of what I eat. I’m also focusing on being active (getting out more at lunch, walking our dogs, etc.). I feel better about myself, even though I have a long way to hit all of my health goals.
I’ve been creating eating plans, based on both the 4 Day Diet and other health needs. One area of specific focus is getting enough antioxidants. I have a limited understanding of antioxidants, but the gist is this. You need them, and you need to focus on four major categories (Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Carotenoids, and Polyphenolic).
As it turns out, nutrition experts have many ways of saying the same thing. Antioxidants=vitamins=fruits & vegetables. If you eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, you’re covering your daily needs of antioxidants. Here’s a very basic list of fruits and vegetables that are heavy in each category.
Vitamin C
- Pomegranate
- Apple
- Orange
- Mango
- Papaya
- Strawberry
- Tomatoes
- Watermelon
- Lemon
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Peas
- Corn
- Spinach
Vitamin E
- Blackberries
- Bananas
- Apples
- Kiwi
- Pine Nuts
- Peanuts
- Almonds
- Sunflower Seeds
Carotenoids
- Carrots
- Sweet Potatoes
- Spinach
- Tomatoes
- Guava
- Pink Grapefruit
- Salmon
- Milk
- Cayanne Pepper
- Peppers
Polyphenolic Antioxidants
- Tea
- Coffee
- Soy
- Olive Oil
- Chocolate
- Cinnamon
- Oregano
- Red Wine
The great news? I have a few items from each category in my diet! Now I just need to stick with it and stay away from the chips and salsa.
