Last Reviewed:February 13, 2024 by Gabrielle Marks
Can Antioxidants Help You Lose Weight?
According to recent scientific studies, natural antioxidants may be able to aid weight loss efforts by fighting fat at the cellular level. Scientists in Taiwan discovered that fat cells exposed to antioxidants had lower levels of triglycerides, a fatty substance that increases the risk of heart disease, metabolic syndrome, and other harmful diseases associated with obesity. [1]
Jump Ahead
- What Are Antioxidants?
- Where Are Antioxidants Found?
- Why Do Antioxidants Aid in Weight Loss?
- Resources
What Are Antioxidants?
Antioxidants are natural compounds that help fight oxidative stress caused by free radicals and dangerous molecules contributing to obesity, cancer, and other chronic diseases. Antioxidants can neutralize free radicals and prevent them from harming the body. Obesity has been linked with oxidative stress, so antioxidants may be particularly helpful in combating the disease. [2]
Where Are Antioxidants Found?
Fresh fruits and vegetables are the best sources of antioxidants, and colorful produce is considered especially rich in these valuable compounds. Dark green, leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale contain antioxidants. Other excellent colorful options include tomatoes, carrots, bell peppers, and citrus fruit. If you are trying to lose weight, you may also consider small amounts of more calorie-dense yet antioxidant-rich foods. When consumed in moderation, foods such as nuts, green tea, and red wine can supplement your weight loss efforts. [3]
Why Do Antioxidants Aid Weight Loss?
Antioxidant-rich foods will help you lose weight for several reasons. Firstly, fresh fruits and vegetables are low in calories and fiber, which will help you stay full longer. Secondly, scientific evidence suggests that the antioxidants within those foods are inhibiting fat cells from producing harmful chemicals that contribute to weight gain. By adopting a diet of antioxidant-rich foods, your body will take in fewer calories, forcing it to consume fat reserves. Additionally, the food’s antioxidants will fight fat cells rather than make them grow larger.
Resources
- [1] Science Daily – “New Insights into How Natural Antioxidants Fight Fat.”
- [2] National Library of Medicine – National Institutes of Health – “Antioxidants: MedlinePlus.”
- [3] WebMD – “10 Nutrient-Rich Super Foods.”
