Coffee Tops Antioxidant Food Chart
In a study of more than 2,000 adults, conducted under a leading instant coffee brand, revealed that almost as many as 75 per cent of individuals that make their own decisions about healthy eating could be cutting important sources of antioxidants out of their diets.
In the recent investigation, chocolate, tea, coffee and red wine all appeared among the list of things people felt they should give up to achieve better health. However, when consumed in modest quantities, all of these are great sources of antioxidants, compounds that can support the body against free radical damage.
Coffee is reportedly one of the most antioxidant-rich foods we have in our diet. Whether consumed black, white, cappuccino or latte style, coffee’s high antioxidant count is readily absorbed by the body.
When quizzed about food and beverages they considered to be rich in antioxidants, 59 per cent of the adult participants named blackcurrants as the best source, 46 per cent felt that red wine and carrots hit the top of the list, with dark chocolate and tea named by 40 per cent and 35 per cent respectively. However, only a small minority of respondents (8 per cent) had any awareness about the antioxidant benefits of coffee.
Dr Sarah Schenker, a registered dietician, explained that healthy eating plans need to be balanced, informed and with a long-term approach. She added that while most people in the UK feel that forgoing coffee will improve their longer term health, "the reality is coffee can be good for you when drunk in moderation and is in fact one of the richest sources of antioxidants there is."