Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) is a method of measuring antioxidant capacities of foods. Developed by the National Institute on Aging. Recently, US Department of Agriculture USDA listed a database of the ORAC value in its home page. A wide variety of foods have been tested using this methodology, with certain spices, berries and legumes rated very highly.

Correlation between the high antioxidant capacity of fruits and vegetables, and the positive impact of diets high in fruits and vegetables, is believed to play an important role in the free-radical theory of aging.
Dr. Perricone's Top 10 Superfoods

A lot has been said over the past few years about "superfoods" -- certain foods that reportedly contribute greatly toward your overall health. Now, Dr. Perricone, an M.D. probably best known for his guest appearances on such television shows as 'Oprah,' the 'Today Show' and 'Larry King Live,' has weighed in with his top 10 choices. I found it interesting because even though there are some standards there, his list does include a few items that I haven't necessarily seen referred to as "superfoods" before.

Though each food has different possible benefits, it is believed that consuming these may help to regulate metabolism and burn body fat, lower cholesterol, prevent cancer, protect against heart disease and act as an aid to your digestive health. As always though, check that with your own doctor first. Perricone actually calls Wild Alaskan Salmon the "King of Superfoods" (which I suppose makes this a top 11 list instead), followed by the following 10:

  • Açai Berry -- A high energy berry from the Amazon
  • The Allium Family -- Garlic, onions, shallots, leeks and chives
  • Barley
  • Green foods including blue green algae, barley grass and wheat grass
  • Buckwheat seed -- More protein than rice or wheat
  • Beans and lentils -- High in fiber
  • Hot peppers -- Anti-inflammatory analgesic
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Sprouts
  • Yogurt or kefir