There are several risk factors that make women more vulnerable to certain diseases for men. For example, heart disease is the leading cause of death in women in the U.S., killing 299,578 women in 2017, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Fortunately, there are ways to fend off these serious diseases and protect your immune system, and it's by fortifying your diet with antioxidant-rich foods. These superfoods claim big bragging rights for lowering cholesterol, improving digestion, promoting weight loss, and maintaining healthy skin and hair. If you're eating most of these foods already, good for you, but if you're skimping on them, it's time to load up your grocery cart.

