The benefits of antioxidants are many, including the prevention of cancers; attributes which are all the more remarkable when you consider they are found in plants. When these compounds are found in plants they are called phytonutrients which work in conjunction with nutrients found in the human body to combat disease. So far scientists have catalogued over nine hundred phytonutrients (phytochemicals); huge advances in preventative health care and nutrition are advancing at an almost daily rate. There have been a huge number of health benefits discovered so far from many well known foods; blueberries, pomegranates can reduce the signs of aging, whereas cherries can help relieve joint pain.

Unrecognized for many years, the properties contained in the blueberry are only just now being appreciated with many antioxidant compounds contained in a fruit with very low sugar content. The easiest way to inject concentrated amounts of these fruits is by drinking juice every day; regular consumption can help our circulation and increase our ability to combat illness. Infection is also reduced as are the chances of disease from the powerful antioxidants they contain. The old saying about an apple-a-day couldn't be truer with evidence that they can help prevent the chance of heart conditions occurring.

The likes of many citrus fruits also have health benefits associated with the phytochemicals they contain. Tart cherries can also provide anti-inflammatory benefits to people who suffer with conditions that cause pain in and around the joints. Most of us have already heard about the benefits that certain minerals and vitamins like B, c and E provide which have now become widely used in products. Another group of antioxidants called Phytoalexins (resveratrol) found in many berries can prevent infection and have anti-viral properties.

Some of the most common aging conditions including Alzheimer's disease, strokes, high blood pressure, and heart attack can all be helped by these compounds. Tomatoes are another fruit that contains nutrients that can help prevent to the onset of certain cancers as well as heart conditions. There are a number of ways you can use tomatoes to gain the greatest antioxidant benefit from them and these include pureed, juice concentrate and sauce. Watermelons, recognized as a refreshing summer fruit also contain some of the most powerful phytonutrients yet found. With all the natural goodness fruit contains and now the health benefits as well, isn't it time for you to start having more fruit in your diet.