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WASHINGTON, Jun 16, 2004 (United Press International via COMTEX) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture has published a list of the best sources of food antioxidants.
Beans, fruits, potatoes and pecans topped the list, which was released Wednesday.
USDA researchers conducted what they called the largest and most comprehensive study evaluating antioxidant levels in over 100 commonly-consumed foods. They confirmed that foods such as cranberries and blueberries contain high amounts of the disease-fighting compounds, and lesser-known sources such as Russet potatoes, pecans, and spices including cinnamon and ground cloves, also are high in content.
Antioxidants are thought to fight the onset of cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer's disease.
"The bottom line is the same: eat more fruits and veggies," said study author Ronald L. Prior, a USDA chemist and nutritionist. "This study confirms that those foods are full of benefits, particularly those with higher levels of antioxidants. Nuts and spices are also good sources."
Some foods that ranked the highest in content include red beans, blueberries, red kidney beans, pinto beans, blueberries, cranberries, cooked artichokes and apples.
Copyright 2004 by United Press International.
