Nutrition experts highlighted four beverages that have more antioxidants than green tea, including coffee, sugar-free cocoa, pomegranate juice and plum juice. Note its main benefits and what you should take into account when shopping.
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27/10/2026
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O green tea is known to provide beneficial vegetable compounds, but it is not the only drink with these properties.
Nutrition experts explained to Martha Stewart's website the concept of antioxidants and highlighted four drinks that are really worth it.
Antioxidants: Is it really worth it?
“ In fact, this is just a sophisticated way of saying that some drinks offer more nutritional benefits,” says nutritionist Elizabeth Shaw.
Thus, drinks made with plants, especially fruits, usually contain antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that help the body cope with oxidative stress.
Over time, these compounds can help neutralize some of the cellular wear associated with free radicals.
Some drinks contain polyphenols, natural vegetable compounds found in tea, coffee, cocoa and fruit juices, adds nutritionist Sylvia Klinger.
These compounds may reduce general inflammation, although their antioxidant content and impact on the body may be influenced by factors such as infusion time, water temperature, processing, storage and portion size.
The 4 most antioxidant-rich drinks
1. Coffee
“Coffee is rich in phenolic compounds, including coffee acid,” Klinger noted, highlighting a laboratory study that found antioxidant activity in coy coffee and instant comparable or superior to green tea.
Shaw adds that lighter toners usually retain more chlorogenic acids than darker toners, although the preparation may influence the overall profile of polyphenols.
2. Sugar-free Cocoa
Shaw points out that sugar-free cocoa powder has been his “secret weapon” since he was a mother.
“ Cocoa is rich in polyphenols, including flavonoids, which have been studied for its potential role in supporting cardiometabolic health, including heart health and healthy regulation of blood sugar, as well as cognitive and mental well-being,” he noted.
The nutritionist revealed that she adds it to smoothies with naturally sweet foods such as fruit.
Cocoa contains flavonols, including epicatequine and catechine, which are associated with improved vascular function and other potential health benefits.
3. Pomegranate juice
As pomegranate juice is richer in sugar and calories than green tea, Shaw recommends that it be diluted in water.
Pomegranate juice polyphenols contribute to cognitive health and physical performance. Some studies suggest that they can assist aspects of memory and cognition, as well as performance and recovery.
4. Plum juice
Plum juice contributes to intestinal health, which in turn benefits bone and cardiovascular health, as well as promoting healthy aging. The plum juice can be added to shakes.
“ This combination can help slow digestion and moderate the glycaemic response, while providing the natural compounds present in the plums,” he explained.
Prune juice contains phenolic compounds, including hydroxycinamic acids and other polyphenols, as well as sorbitol, a natural sugar alcohol that may help in intestinal regularity.
What you should pay attention to when choosing a drink
Shaw recommends choosing low-calorie or calorie-free drinks that promote hydration and minimize the intake of added and empty calories.
Klinger agrees and notes that the drink with the highest antioxidant score is not necessarily the healthier option in general, and recommends considering the size of the portion, added sugar, caffeine and nutrients, in addition to antioxidants.
“Coffee, tea and sugar-free cocoa are good options to enjoy polyphenols without added sugar, while a small portion of 120 ml of 100% natural pomegranate juice can provide vegetable compounds and vitamins,” Klinger concludes.