Cheryl Forberg, author of Positively Ageless and nutritionist for the NBC reality series The Biggest Loser, recommends that we eat our antioxidants.  In this FirstLook at Positively Ageless, Ms. Forberg focuses on the value of foods high in vitamins, specifically C and E, both of which offer protection from free radicals.  Instead of downing vitamin pills, aim to add various types of fruits and vegetables to the diet.  These natural foods offer both tremendous varieties of antioxidants and phytochemicals which operate successfully together within the body.   Ms. Forberg writes that scientists have "barely scratched the surface of knowing what these food components do individually, let alone in teams."

Strongly flavored vegetables like garlic, ginger and onions, when fused together in a dish (think curry) provide antioxidants, antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.  Individually, each extends relief from indigestion (ginger), anti-inflammatory properties (ginger), cancer fighters (onions), and stroke prevention (garlic).  Garlic, Ms. Forberg adds, contains more selenium than any other vegetable.  In addition, it has compounds which lower triglycerides and cholesterol, decreasing blood clotting and lowering blood pressure.

It is the antioxidant levels within the vegetables which lends them their scent, flavor, and color.

Scientists use the ORAC method or Oxygen Radical Absorbency Capacity score to suggest a food's ability to neutralize free radicals--particles which speed the aging process or which lead to disease.  The ORAC method has shown through testing that the body needs antioxidants from a variety of plants every few hours for the best protection.

Ms. Forberg cites the blueberry--it contains more than 300 different plant chemicals. Just 1/2 cup of blueberries (wild) offers up an ORAC score of 6,314.  Its compounds prevent aging memory and motor-coordination difficulties.  Blueberries also offer protection against cancer and heart disease.

Eat a large colorful variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables grown close to home for wide spectrum protection.  There's safety in every bite. 

BackStory: Cheryl Forberg, RD--one of the few who is both a registered dietitian and a professional chef, will soon release her new book Positively Ageless: A 28-Day Plan for a Younger, Slimmer, Sexier You (Rodale '08). Cheryl Forberg, currently serves as the nutritionist and as an advisor for Prevention magazine.  Previously Ms. Forberg was a research dietitian at Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.  She has written or contributed to nine books and in 2005 won the prestigious James Beard award for healthy recipe development. 

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