{"id":298011,"date":"2025-07-28T08:25:17","date_gmt":"2025-07-28T08:25:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/298011\/"},"modified":"2025-07-28T08:25:17","modified_gmt":"2025-07-28T08:25:17","slug":"7-surprising-antioxidant-rich-foods-you-should-eat","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/298011\/","title":{"rendered":"7 Surprising Antioxidant-Rich Foods You Should Eat"},"content":{"rendered":"<ul>\n<li>Antioxidants play an important role in fighting off free radicals and reducing your risk of chronic disease.<\/li>\n<li>Typically associated with brightly-colored foods, plenty of brown and white foods contain antioxidants.<\/li>\n<li>Surprising examples of antioxidant-rich foods include peanut butter, olives, oats, coffee and mushrooms.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Antioxidants are naturally occurring compounds that play an important role in your overall health by fighting off free radicals. Free radicals are formed in the body as a byproduct of metabolism but also through exposure to air pollution, pesticides and more. These unstable molecules are bad news, since they can damage your cells and DNA. Over time, that damage can lead to <a class=\"recommendation-inline-link-ai\" href=\"https:\/\/www.eatingwell.com\/what-is-inflammation-8766645\" link-destination-recommendation-ai=\"true\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">chronic inflammation<\/a> and increase your risk of diseases like cancer and type 2 diabetes.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> That\u2019s where antioxidants come in\u2014they can neutralize those unstable free radicals and <a class=\"recommendation-inline-link-ai\" href=\"https:\/\/www.eatingwell.com\/best-nutrient-to-reduce-skin-cancer-risk-11765954\" link-destination-recommendation-ai=\"true\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">prevent the cell damage<\/a> they might otherwise cause. While \u201ceat the rainbow\u201d is often a good rule of thumb when it comes to getting antioxidants from food, there are other <a class=\"recommendation-inline-link-ai\" href=\"https:\/\/www.eatingwell.com\/article\/8027728\/best-budget-friendly-antioxidant-rich-foods\/\" link-destination-recommendation-ai=\"true\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">antioxidant-rich foods<\/a> that might not follow the rainbow rule. Here\u2019s why we think these surprising antioxidant-rich foods deserve a spot in your diet.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<p>  1. Peanut Butter  <\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Peanut butter is well known for being a <a class=\"recommendation-inline-link-ai pseudoStyle\" href=\"https:\/\/www.eatingwell.com\/protein-longevity-study-11720799\" link-destination-recommendation-ai=\"true\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">source of plant-based protein<\/a> and healthy fats, but it\u2019s also packed with antioxidants. For example, peanut butter is a good source of vitamin E and contains phenolic compounds\u2014both of which stamp out free radicals. When restocking your peanut butter, be sure to reach for one that doesn\u2019t have added oils or salt. Bonus points if you can find a peanut butter that is made with unblanched peanuts (aka skin-on peanuts). Research has found that the peanut skins contain more phenolic acids than other well-known antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries or green tea.\n<\/p>\n<p>  2. Dates  <\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Despite their nickname as \u201cnature\u2019s candy\u201d, dates are more than just a sweet treat. They might not be as brightly colored as other fruits, but dates are rich in antioxidants just the same. \u201cDates deliver <a class=\"recommendation-inline-link-ai\" href=\"https:\/\/www.eatingwell.com\/best-antioxidant-drinks-11736079\" link-destination-recommendation-ai=\"true\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">powerful antioxidants<\/a>, including carotenoids, flavonoids and phytosterols. Together, these compounds help <a class=\"recommendation-inline-link-ai\" href=\"https:\/\/www.eatingwell.com\/article\/8057501\/healthy-foods-help-lower-heart-disease-risk-new-study\/\" link-destination-recommendation-ai=\"true\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">protect against heart disease<\/a>, cancer and Alzheimer\u2019s disease, and even have antimicrobial properties,\u201d says <a href=\"https:\/\/highenergynutrition.com\/about\/\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"3\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Christina Kilton, RD, LD<\/a>.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<p>  3. Olives  <\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> While we often hear about all the health benefits associated with olive oil, we may overlook the olives themselves. Beyond being a popular addition to cheese boards, olives are rich in an array of essential vitamins and minerals. For example, olives contain vitamin E and <a class=\"recommendation-inline-link-ai\" href=\"https:\/\/www.eatingwell.com\/tea-aging-study-11731249\" link-destination-recommendation-ai=\"true\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">antioxidant compounds like quercetin<\/a> and hydroxytyrosol. The only drawback to snacking on olives is that they are high in sodium, so those who need to monitor their sodium intake or have high blood pressure should watch their portion size or give them a quick rinse under water.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<p>  4. Potatoes  <\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Potatoes are another food that many people might assume isn\u2019t as healthy as other vibrant-colored veggies. \u201cPotatoes are a <a class=\"recommendation-inline-link-ai\" href=\"https:\/\/www.eatingwell.com\/article\/50623\/7-of-the-healthiest-foods-you-should-be-eating-but-arent\/\" link-destination-recommendation-ai=\"true\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">nutrient-dense whole food<\/a> that\u2019s high in antioxidants. They contain <a class=\"recommendation-inline-link-ai\" href=\"https:\/\/www.eatingwell.com\/article\/8027728\/best-budget-friendly-antioxidant-rich-foods\/\" link-destination-recommendation-ai=\"true\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">vitamin-based antioxidants<\/a> including vitamin C, thiamin (vitamin B1), pyridoxine (vitamin B6), folate (vitamin B9) and vitamin E,\u201d says <a href=\"https:\/\/www.diabetesteam.com\/writers\/683f0deb46c7aa1e0f3349e2\" class=\"pseudoStyle\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"3\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Avery Zenker, RD<\/a>. She goes on to add that \u201cthey also contain <a class=\"recommendation-inline-link-ai pseudoStyle\" href=\"https:\/\/www.eatingwell.com\/polyphenols-reduce-cognitive-decline-11680121\" link-destination-recommendation-ai=\"true\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">antioxidant polyphenols<\/a>, including phenolic acids, flavonoids and chlorogenic acids.\u201d Potatoes are a source of <a class=\"recommendation-inline-link-ai\" href=\"https:\/\/www.eatingwell.com\/what-is-resistant-starch-11749332\" link-destination-recommendation-ai=\"true\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">resistant starch<\/a>, too, which supports a healthier gut microbiome by feeding the \u201cgood\u201d bacteria in the gut.\n<\/p>\n<p>  5. Oats\u00a0  <\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> While most people are familiar with the <a class=\"recommendation-inline-link-ai pseudoStyle\" href=\"https:\/\/www.eatingwell.com\/fiber-foods-to-help-lower-cholesterol-11770161\" link-destination-recommendation-ai=\"true\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">cholesterol-lowering benefits<\/a> of oats, they are also a surprising source of antioxidants. The primary antioxidants found in oats include polyphenols, chlorophyll and flavonoids, as well as one that is specific to oats called avenanthramides\u2014all of which work together to combat free radicals and inflammation. And that\u2019s not all: the beta-glucan in oats does more than help lower cholesterol\u2014it encourages the good bacteria in your gut to produce <a class=\"recommendation-inline-link-ai\" href=\"https:\/\/www.eatingwell.com\/article\/7960120\/whole-grains-cereal-fiber-inflammation\/\" link-destination-recommendation-ai=\"true\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">inflammation-fighting short-chain fatty acids<\/a>. Next time you make a bowl of oats, top it with some fruit and nuts to boost the antioxidants even more.\n<\/p>\n<p>  6. Coffee  <\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Almost 75% of U.S. adults drink at least one cup of coffee every single day. That morning cup of joe provides more than just a buzz\u2014coffee is surprisingly rich in antioxidants. Research has found that coffee beans contain over 100 different polyphenols, or antioxidant compounds, including phenolic acids and flavonoids. So what\u2019s the best way to brew your coffee for optimal antioxidants? One study found that <a class=\"recommendation-inline-link-ai\" href=\"https:\/\/www.eatingwell.com\/article\/41595\/9-rules-for-how-to-make-a-perfect-cup-of-coffee\/\" link-destination-recommendation-ai=\"true\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">medium roast, organic coffee beans<\/a> brewed for three minutes had the highest levels of antioxidants when compared to other brewing methods.\n<\/p>\n<p>  7. Mushrooms  <\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Another veggie surprisingly high in antioxidants is mushrooms. \u201cBaby bella mushrooms are easy to find in most grocery stores and pack a punch when it comes to antioxidants\u2014especially ergothioneine and glutathione,\u201d says <a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstlinenutritionllc.com\/about\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Candice Knauer, M.S., RD, LD<\/a>. In addition, the antioxidants in mushrooms may help <a class=\"recommendation-inline-link-ai\" href=\"https:\/\/www.eatingwell.com\/early-adulthood-inflammation-may-influence-cognition-in-midlife-8676000\" link-destination-recommendation-ai=\"true\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">prevent inflammation in the brain<\/a>. One study found that cognitive decline was significantly delayed in people who consumed polyphenol-rich foods like mushrooms, cocoa and red wine regularly.\n<\/p>\n<p>  Our Expert Take  <\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_32-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> While incorporating more vibrantly hued fruits and vegetables into your diet is one way to increase your antioxidant intake, those aren\u2019t the only foods that offer these good-for-you compounds. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that plenty of brown and white foods like dates, potatoes, mushrooms and peanut butter are packed with them. So if you\u2019re looking to score more antioxidants in your diet, don\u2019t overlook these foods!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Antioxidants play an important role in fighting off free radicals and reducing your risk of chronic disease. Typically&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":298012,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4318],"tags":[105,4434,16,15],"class_list":{"0":"post-298011","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-nutrition","8":"tag-health","9":"tag-nutrition","10":"tag-uk","11":"tag-united-kingdom"},"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/pubeurope.com\/@uk\/114929908097575740","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/298011","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=298011"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/298011\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/298012"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=298011"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=298011"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=298011"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}