EAT YOUR ANTIOXIDANTS

Stave off cancer, diabetes and vision loss with these antioxidant-rich foods

You’ve probably heard about the anti-aging benefits of antioxidants, but we bet you didn’t know that these nutrients can also help ward off disease. They prevent cell damage, which makes them pretty incredible at fighting cancer, diabetes and vision loss. And they’re easy to find—just add these whole foods to your grocery list.

SIGHT SAVIOURS

OTHERWISE KNOWN AS: Lutein and zeaxanthin

FOUND IN: Yellow and green vegetables, such as peppers, corn, spinach and broccoli

HOW THEY WORK: Eating foods rich in these nutrients can help protect against cataracts and macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness. “They improve the function of the retina itself,” says Desiree Nielsen, a Vancouver registered dietitian. “If you don’t get lutein and zeaxanthin in your diet, it contributes to deterioration in eyesight as you get older.”

AGE DEFIER

OTHERWISE KNOWN AS: Lycopene FOUND IN: Tomatoes, watermelon, pink grapefruit and papaya

HOW IT WORKS: Lycopene helps fight photodamage, which is the damage to skin or DNA caused by exposure to UV radiation. Over time, that can mean a younger-looking complexion, says Nielsen. It’s also a potent anti-inflammatory, and research shows it may help prevent strokes and heart disease. For the most benefit, eat lycopene-rich foods cooked—tomato paste is one of the best sources because it’s so concentrated.