Antioxidants are a type of compound that can protect the body against cell damage caused by oxidative stress. When you consume antioxidants, your body becomes better positioned to fight inflammation, certain neurological disorders, and even cancer. (Read up on some surprising things that can cause inflammation .)

Consuming foods rich in antioxidants can strengthen the body's defenses. Take blueberries, for example: a single cup can have pretty much all the antioxidants you need in a day (via a 2004 study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry). That's terrific, of course, but what if you're tired of blueberries and want to get antioxidants from a different food source? In that case, head straight to the bean aisle and grab some black beans. Though black beans taste nothing

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