Coffee is chock-full of healthy antioxidants. It has been said to be an American's largest source of antioxidants; with bananas coming in at a distant second. Our favorite morning beverage is naturally rich with polyphenols, powerful molecules that prevent the damage caused to our bodies by those infamous "free radicals."
In scientific yet simple terms, free radicals are unstable molecules that are by-products of our metabolism and produced when our cells grow and die. These unstable molecules want nothing more to become stable again so they bond with other healthy molecules resulting in cell damage, disease, and aging.
Coffee Pot
Diseases and conditions attributed to free radical damage include:
Heart Disease Parkinson's Disease Type 2 Diabetes Colon Cancer Increased Incidence of Gallstones
Antioxidants stabilize the free radicals preventing them from doing damage to our healthy tissue. Our bodies produce their own natural antioxidants to combat the free radicals but we can get extra from consuming plant-based foods, including coffee.
In addition to the prevention of the disease as we mentioned, antioxidants also:
Invigorate the Immune System Inhibit Overall Aging of Cells and the Body Boost Immune System Improve Blood Flow Improve Eye Sight Slow Down Bone Loss
Not only is coffee natural high in these beneficial antioxidants but it has been found that the roasting processing creates its own healthful compounds. Coffee is purported to have more antioxidants than green tree. If you'd rather avoid caffeine, go for a decaffeinated brew for the same benefits. Other foods in which you will find antioxidant nutrients are fruits and vegetables, nuts, seed oils, whole grains, lentils, and beans.
