Do blueberries and strawberries have similar levels of anthocyanins? How could you find out?
No, blueberries and strawberries have different levels of anthocyanins because anthocyanins are responsible for the colors associated with the fruits. (Berries and the Brain, n.d.) Since they have different colors, they have different levels of anthocyanins. Levels of anthocyanins in different fruits can be determined by chromatography or by using a spectrophotometer. The easiest way would be to separate the anthocyanins from other pigments in the fruits using different solvents, and then chromatographing the extracts. Finally, the amount and wavelength of light they absorb can be determined using a calorimeter which would help measure a number of anthocyanins in the fruits. ("Anthocyanins", n.d.)
What other environmental factors influence the production of free radicals?
Environmental factors that influence the production of free radicals include daily stress, cigarette smoke, air pollutants, processed foods and pesticides in foods, radiation including UV rays from the Sun, toxins in care products, drugs, germs, viruses or fungi. Unhealthy fats as well as an excess of exercise influences free radical production. An excessive amount of sugar intake is also a cause. Therefore, the Western lifestyle in general, as well as all these other factors, are responsible for spawning the production of free radicals.
What other nutrients can help the body reduce the level of damaging free radicals? What are some foods that contain these nutrients?
Vitamin A, C, and E, sulforaphane and zinc are other nutrients that help the body reduce the level of damaging free radicals. Fruits containing Vitamin C include oranges, grapefruit, prunes, watercress and cranberries, while those containing Vitamin A are apricots and kale. Alfalfa sprouts and pecans contain Vitamin E, while pomegranates and avocados are rich in zinc and also contribute towards reducing the level of damage caused by free radicals. Broccoli is the richest in sulforaphane. Minimally processed cocoa can also greatly help in fighting free radicals. Lastly, green tea and white tea also contribute towards reducing the damage caused by free radicals.
References
Berries and the Brain. (n.d.) Retrieved from http://college.cengage.com/nutrition/shared/content/video/play.html?video=217304_lsgb501x_feb082007_v02_berries_and_the_brain
Anthocyanins. (n.d.). Madsci.org. Retrieved 12 June 2016, from http://www.madsci.org/FAQs/anthocyanins.html
