Antioxidants keep us healthy, banish wrinkles and prevent chronic disease, making them the secret weapon to a healthy diet. Any brightly-coloured fruit or vegetable such as red tomatoes or orange carrots are rich in antioxidants, but with all the nutritional information thrown at us, it can be difficult to work out what foods are best when it comes to vitamins and minerals.
Nutritional therapist Gabriela Peacock reveals the top vitamins to include in your diet, and which foods are packed with them…
Scroll below for the full guide
Brightly coloured fruits and vegetables are often packed with antioxidants
Vitamin AThis vitamin helps the immune system, as well as the intestinal, respiratory and urinary tracts. For a boost of Vitamin A, include foods such as carrots, sweet potatoes and kale in your diet.
Vitamin CThis helps protect your cells from damage, and improves the absorption of iron which is great for your energy levels. It also helps the immune system to work properly, and can be found in citrus fruits, strawberries and kiwis.
Vitamin EThis vitamin supports the immune system so it can fight infections, prevent blood clots and protect your cells from free radicals. Make sure to get your fix by introducing wholegrains, broccoli, nuts and seeds into your healthy diet.
Antioxidants play a key role in keeping us healthy and banishing wrinkles
SeleniumThis essential mineral, when partnered with Vitamin E, provides oxidative protection and helps regulate thyroid function. Usually found in foods including fish and red meat, but if you're vegetarian you can also get your quota by eating brazil nuts.
LycopeneThis naturally occurring 'phytonutrient' gives fruit and vegetables their red colour. Studies show Lycopene reduces the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease and macular degeneration. The best lycopene foods include tomatoes, papaya and apricots.
LuteinThis mineral is usually found in green, leafy vegetables. It can reduce the risk of chronic eye disease, lowers the risk of developing cataracts and protects healthy cells. Lutein can be found in kiwi, broccoli, kale and spinach.
