You can find a rainbow of colors in the produce section at your supermarket, and all that color provides big nutritional benefits.
When you shop, look for the most vividly colored fruits and vegetables. Colorful plant chemicals—such as carotenoids and flavonoids—contain antioxidants that can strengthen your immune system, protect your body’s cells from disease-causing free radicals, and may prevent some types of cancer or heart disease.
Different colors mean different types of antioxidants with different benefits. Here’s a guide:
The Reds
This hue is a sign of antioxidants that may reduce your risk for cancer and protect your heart. Consider putting these in your cart:
- Cranberries
- Pomegranates
- Radishes
- Raspberries and strawberries
- Red bell peppers
- Red grapes
- Tomatoes
The Oranges and Yellows
They are packed with carotenoids, such as beta-carotene and vitamin C. These nutrients promote heart health and vision and may reduce the risk for certain cancers. Shop for these bright foods:
- Acorn squash
- Butternut squash
- Carrots
- Corn
- Oranges, lemons, grapefruit
- Peaches
- Pumpkin
- Sweet potatoes
The Greens
Green vegetables contain a slew of antioxidants. They are also a rich source of other health essentials, such as folate, minerals, and fiber. Add these to your menu:
- Broccoli
- Brussels sprouts
- Collard greens
- Green bell peppers
- Kale
- Spinach
- Swiss chard
The Blues and Purples
Fruits and veggies that are blue and purple offer many of the same benefits as red items. Fill up on these deeply hued choices:
- Beets
- Blackberries
- Blueberries
- Plums
- Purple grapes and juice
Article from The StayWell Company, LLC