Power up with antioxidants from the Farmers Market

Published on August 13, 2025

Photo grid of flavored olive oil bottles, bags of beans and lentils, pints of blackberries, growlers of kombucha, baskets of Swiss chard and kale, packages of herbal tea blends

Antioxidants are natural substances — found in many foods — that help protect your body’s cells from damage caused by unstable molecules called free radicals. Having too many free radicals can cause a process called oxidative stress, which is linked to aging and certain diseases.

Found in many colorful fruits, vegetables, nuts and teas, antioxidants help fight free radicals, support immune health, and keep your skin and cells healthy. Many of these powerful foods are in season and available at the Lenexa Farmers Market.

Since produce at farmers markets is sold soon after harvest, it keeps more of those health-boosting nutrients than store-bought fruits and veggies that were picked early and shipped long distances.

Spices and oils

Ginger powder – A flavorful spice with anti-inflammatory benefits (Boundless KC Microgreens & Urban Farm).

Olive oil – Rich in heart-healthy antioxidants (Daniel's Bar-b-q Sauces).

Fruits

Blackberries – Bursting with vitamin C and polyphenols (JET Produce and Meats).

Red wine – (in moderation!) Made from antioxidant-rich grapes (Holy-Field Vineyard & Winery).

Veggies

Dark leafy greens – Kale, cabbage and Swiss chard are loaded with vitamins and antioxidants (JET Produce and Meats, TableTop Farms, New Roots vendors).

Mushrooms – Earthy and immune-boosting (Euphoria Farms Fungi, or powdered lion’s mane from Boundless KC Microgreens & Urban Farm).

Legumes, grains and nuts

Beans and lentils – Protein-packed and full of beneficial plant compounds (JET Produce and Meats).

Whole grains – A fiber-rich way to get your antioxidants (Fyler Farms, JET Produce and Meats).

Oats – Great for heart health and sustained energy (Yummylicious Cookie Co.).

Pecans – One of the top antioxidant-rich nuts (Jake Creek Pecans).

Tea blends

Local tea blends packed with soothing, antioxidant-rich herbs (Lionberry by Mama Pajama, Smooth September).

Kombucha made from black tea infused with fruits offers an added boost with fermentation, which can enhance some antioxidant properties (Artisan Kombucha).