ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) values were previously used to measure the antioxidant capacity of foods and supplements. While they are no longer used as a marketing tool, ORAC values can still give us an idea of the antioxidant content of different foods. Here are the top 10 foods based on their ORAC values:
Raw cacao: Cacao is one of the most antioxidant-rich foods, with an ORAC value of around 98,000 per 100g.
Goji berries: These small, red berries are packed with antioxidants and have an ORAC value of around 25,000 per 100g.
Wild blueberries: Wild blueberries are higher in antioxidants than cultivated blueberries, with an ORAC value of around 9,600 per 100g.
Pecans: Pecans are a good source of healthy fats and antioxidants, with an ORAC value of around 17,000 per 100g.
Artichokes: Artichokes are a good source of fiber and antioxidants, with an ORAC value of around 9,400 per 100g.
Elderberries: Elderberries are rich in antioxidants and have an ORAC value of around 14,000 per 100g.
Kidney beans: Kidney beans are a good source of plant-based protein and antioxidants, with an ORAC value of around 8,400 per 100g.
Cranberries: Cranberries are well known for their ability to help prevent urinary tract infections and have an ORAC value of around 9,500 per 100g.
Blackberries: Blackberries are rich in antioxidants and have an ORAC value of around 5,300 per 100g.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a popular spice that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, with an ORAC value of around 267,500 per 100g.
It’s important to note that ORAC values are not the only measure of a food’s antioxidant content and that other factors, such as bioavailability and how the food is prepared, can affect the antioxidant activity in the body. Nonetheless, including a variety of antioxidant-rich foods in your diet can help protect against oxidative stress and chronic diseases. What’s your favorite?
