The human body is made up of over 100 trillion cells, and every hour at least one billion need to be replaced. Most cells are replaced because they are damaged by free radicals, which are atoms that have lost an electron due to metabolism, the immune system, which neutralizes viruses or bacteria, and environmental factors, such as: polution, radiation, smoke, or herbicides.
These free radicals attack normal cells just like the game “Pacman”. Free radicals search out an extra electron, thus damaging the perfectly healthy cells. This where antioxidants come into play. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals by donating an electron, which ends the electron “stealing” reaction. They act as scavengers by helping prevent cell and tissue damage that could lead to possible disease. Antioxidants are stable in either form (with or without electron), so they do not transform into free radicals. They are like your own little cell protectors.
The fruits below are among the highest antioxidant producing fruits in the world. I completely recommend that you incorporate them into your daily diet.
Top Antioxidant Producing Fruits:
- Noni: Grown mainly in shady forests and sandy or rocky beaches, this fruit is whitish in color as it ripens and produces an awfully bitter taste (commonly known as “vomit fruit”.)
- Acai: This small, round, and black-purplish drupe has about eight species native to South and Central America and is known for its amazing ability to help with weight loss.
- Mangosteen: Comes from a tropical evergreen tree and is known for its sweet and tangy taste.
- Goji: Commonly known as “wolf-berry,” this berry has a bright reddish-orange color and typically ripens from July to October.
- Pomegranate: A drought tolerant fruit that can be grown in dry areas and has similar physical characteristics of a red apple.