Think back to your high school chemistry class for a moment and recall the structure of an atom. In order for an atom to be stable, it must have an outer shell layer full of electrons. If an atom has an outer shell than is not complete, it will want to bind with another atom to share electrons. Atoms with unpaired elections or incomplete outer shells are called free radicals. Free radicals are very unstable and can break down the body's cells over time. When oxygen molecules, for a primary example, split into single molecules, they become unstable free radicals. When these free radicals cannot find another molecule to pair with it creates a process called oxidative stress. This leads to many diseases such as Alzheimer's, rheumatoid arthritis, cataracts, diabetes, Hunting's disease, as well as hair loss, and premature aging.

Antioxidants are then necessary bind to the free radicals in order to keep them in check. Your body produces it's own antioxidants, but not enough. It in highly beneficial to eat foods rich in antioxidants to prevent many heath issues. They come in a wide range of foods are are found in very accessible foods. The American Dietetic Association provides several examples.

Fruits and dried fruits

Dried fruits are higher in antioxidants than fresh fruits because the water is removed. They make for a quick easy snack. Great options to try dried or fresh are pears, plums, apples, peaches, figs, dates and raisins. Other fresh fruits include cranberries, red grapes, peaches, raspberries, strawberries, red currants, figs, and cherries

Vegetables

Broccoli, spinach, carrots and potatoes are all high in antioxidants, and so are artichokes, cabbage, asparagus, avocados, beetroot, radish, lettuce, sweet potatoes, squash, pumpkin, collard greens and kale.

Spices and herbs

Using lots of spices in cooking is good. Many are loaded with antioxidants, like cinnamon, oregano, turmeric, cumin, parsley, basil, curry powder, mustard seed, ginger, pepper, chili powder, paprika, garlic, coriander, onion and cardamom. Herbs include sage, thyme, marjoram, tarragon, peppermint, oregano, savory, basil and dill weed. All contribute complexity and flavor to your meals, but also are high in antioxidants.

Cereals and nuts

Eating your morning corn flakes, oatmeal and granola bars is a great start to your day. Walnuts, hazelnuts, pistachio nuts, almonds, cashews, macadamia nuts and even that peanut butter sandwich are healthy options too.

Beverages

Contrary to popular belief, most of our antioxidants come from beverages. Apple juice, cider, tomato juice, pomegranate juice and pink grapefruit juice seem obvious, and green tea has become very popular as a source, but black tea and plain tea have high levels also.