Your Healthy Rainbow
August 26, 2009 by Tisha Tolar
Filed under Nutrition
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.
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