Your Healthy Rainbow

Some people still remain confused about which fresh vegetables are good for what part of your health. Interestingly, there is a memorable point of reference you can use to remember what to eat and why for healthier eating. That memorable reference point is a rainbow. Experts have said that in order to determine at a glance whether or not a meal is well balanced, you should look and see how colorful your plate is. The same is true in the rainbow theory. Different colored vegetables and fruits have different benefits for your health.

Here is an overlook at the colors of the rainbow and how they can impact and improve the quality of your own health:

Red
Red fruits and vegetables are rich in lycopene which is an antioxidant that prevents cardiovascular disease and prostate cancer. Healthy food choices are watermelons, tomatoes, and red grapefruits.

Orange and Yellow
Fruits and veggies that are orange or orangey-yellow in color contain vitamins A, E, and K, folate, potassium, and fiber. They are also a big supplier of vitamin c.

Green
Green fruits and veggies contain a high amount of lutein, which is an antioxidant the prevents heart disease and promotes healthier vision.  Carotenoids are also found in green foods, including beta-carotene. Green fruits also offer vitamin C. Kiwi fruits, avacados, and beans are all good green foods.

Blue/Purple
Purple food such as eggplants, blueberries, cranberries, and red grapes contain anthocyanidins, which help to strengthen capillaries, support capillary walls, and prevent blood clots. It is also a cancer-preventing agent. Purple foods also help promote healthy livers and gallbladders.

Other foods such as beans that come in an assortment of colors are high in fiber and antioxidants. In fact, the darker the bean is, the more antioxidants it has. It isn’t really hard to incorporate more healthy foods into your daily life. Many fruits and veggies can be added to compliment the things you already eat or be blended together for a tasty smoothie treat. The next time you plan out your dinner, aim for a rainbow covered plate to ensure you are eating the foods that will promote good health. Remember when you want a snack, it can be easy to skip the junk food if you have fresh, cut up fruits and veggies already waiting for your in the fridge. Eating healthier can be as simple and tasty as you want it to be.

The Health Benefits Gained From Swimming

As we all know, there are health benefits that we can gained from swimming. Swimming is a popular sport and recreational activity that dates back to prehistoric times. Believe it or not, there are some health benefits gained from this sport activity. It is believed that cave paintings from the Stone Age show people using swimming as part of a ritual.  In the Middle Ages swimming was one of the seven agilities of knights, which included swimming in armor. Different civilizations held swimming contests throughout history leading up to the first Olympic Games held in 1896 which had six scheduled swimming events.  It would appear that our ancestors understood the value of swimming to improve strength and stamina, however it is unclear if they fully comprehended the additional health benefits associated with swimming.

The following health benefits make swimming an excellent exercise option for people of all ages and fitness levels.
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